Oatmeal is not only a popular breakfast, but also a real insider tip for healthy digestion and building stable intestinal flora. Oats are an excellent source of fiber, especially the soluble fiber beta-glucan, which is essential for healthy digestion.
Oatmeal can support the health of our digestive system in many ways. Because she
- are rich in fiber, which serves as food for health-promoting intestinal bacteria,
- have an anti-inflammatory effect on the intestines,
- regulate the acid balance in the stomach,
- promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.
Beta-glucan: A fiber with digestive effects
Beta-glucan is a crucial factor in the positive effects of oatmeal on digestion and intestinal flora. It is one of the soluble fibers. In the intestines it dissolves in water and forms a gel-like substance. This gel can improve stool consistency and help prevent constipation.
At the same time, beta-glucan serves as food for certain bacteria in the intestines, which are important for a balanced intestinal flora. The intestinal bacteria promoted by the oatmeal fiber in turn help with efficient digestion and improved absorption of nutrients.
Oatmeal has an anti-inflammatory effect
Some ingredients in oatmeal, such as the so-called avenantramides, have anti-inflammatory properties. In the gut, these components help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. Oatmeal has therefore proven to be effective in relieving chronic complaints such as irritable bowel syndrome.
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Oatmeal regulates stomach acidity
Oatmeal can naturally help regulate stomach acidity. The already mentioned fiber beta-glucan also plays an important role here. The soluble fiber also combines with the liquid in the stomach. This causes the stomach contents to become gel-like, which slows digestion, reduces the production of stomach acid and delays gastric emptying.
Heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing burning pain. By delaying gastric emptying and promoting a sustained feeling of fullness, soluble fiber from oatmeal can help reduce the risk of heartburn.
Healthy digestion helps you lose weight
The long period of satiety and the associated curbing of appetite can also be beneficial when losing weight or controlling weight. In addition, healthy digestion with a balanced intestinal flora contributes to protection against colon cancer. (vb)
