There’s a reason why oats have been a diet staple for thousands of years. Considered one of the world’s healthiest foods, oats are jam-packed with key vitamins, minerals, protein and fiber.

What is Oat Bran?

Oats come from the Avena sativa plant, which grows best in temperate climates like northern Europe and North America where they can tolerate cool temperatures with lots of rain. Oats are grown for their seeds and used for food, nutritional supplements, skin care products and bran.

Oat bran is the outer layer of the seed, just beneath the inedible outer hull. Oatmeal, rolled oats, and other oat products contain bran, but you can also buy oat bran separately to add to foods or take in a supplement to increase fiber and micronutrient content.

5 Big Benefits of Oat Bran

1. Promotes healthy digestion. Oat bran offers supercharged fiber to help bowel function and regularity. High fiber intake, along with water, helps ease mild constipation since fiber forms a gel-like substance to help soften stools and make them easier to pass.
2. May support weight loss. Numerous studies suggest diets rich in fiber may aid weight loss since fiber creates a feeling of fullness, so you’re less likely to overindulge. Fiber also helps to regulate the hormone responsible for appetite stimulation, food intake and fat storage.
3. Benefits heart and cholesterol health. The soluble fiber in oat bran, known as beta-glucan, benefits heart and cholesterol by allowing cholesterol-rich bile to be excreted from the body.
4. Loaded with nutrition. Oat bran is chock-full of antioxidants called polyphenols to fight off free radicals, and it contains significant amounts of fiber and protein plus naturally occurring micronutrients like phosphorus, selenium and magnesium.
5. Easy to use. With its crunch and nutty flavor, oat bran can easily be added to pancakes and muffins, added to smoothies, or sprinkled on cereal or yogurt. Oat bran is readily available at your grocery store. Another option is an oat bran supplement that’s easy to swallow and packs a powerfully healthy punch.

Most Americans consume only half of the recommended daily amount of soluble fiber. Oat bran is an ideal herb to get more. Make sure you’re getting enough of this sensational superfood.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice and should not be relied upon. Before making any changes to your health plan, always seek advice from your doctor about your concerns, risks and benefits.