Whole grain oats contain folic acid, pantothenic acid and vitamins B1 and B6. Oatmeal is a whole grain, and is considered a whole food. The outer hull is removed after oats are roasted, however, this process does not strip away their bran or germ allowing them to retain the fiber and nutrients. It’s important for good health to eat whole grain oats.

Here are a few of the various types of oat products:

Steel-cut oats hare made by running the grain through blades which slice them thin. This is the best type of oatmeal because it is the true whole grain. It takes longer to cook, but it is the best for you. It will not only lower cholesterol, but will also stabilize blood sugar levels.
Old-fashioned oats are steamed and then rolled which gives them a flatter shape.

Quick-cooking oats are the same as old fashioned, but they are cut finely before being rolled out. These are different than “Instant Oatmeal” which has additives and I do not recommend it for a healthy lifestyle.

Oat bran is the outer layer of the grain that located under the hull. Oat bran is found in both rolled oats and steel-cut oats, but is most known as a separate product. I love to add it to recipe such as meatloaf and muffins.

Oat groats is an oat kernel with the hull removed. They are good for using as a breakfast cereal or for stuffing. You can also use your home mill to grind groats into fresh oat flour.

Oat flour is made by taking the whole oat and grinding it into a fine flour. It can be added to your favorite pancake, muffin or bread recipe to add whole grain oat flavor and wholesome nutrition.

 Transform your health through the power of smart choices.