The raw oats diet is not a specific diet plan that consists solely of this food. Rather it is a diet that encourages replacing processed oats such as instant, rolled, old-fashioned, thick-rolled and commercial oats with the raw form. According to "Raw Food Detox Diet," author Natalia Rose claims that raw oats retain more nutrients than other forms. Raw oats contain live enzymes, B vitamins, vitamin E, selenium, iron, manganese, protein and fiber. Raw oats are also less sweet than cooked oats because the process of heating oats breaks down the starch found in oats into sugar. A raw oatmeal diet can be a healthy addition to a sensible diet plan.
Benefits of Beta-Glucans
In "The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth," author Dr. Jonny Bowden claims that the presence of beta-glucan is responsible for the many nutritional benefits in raw oats. Beta-glucan is a specific type of soluble fiber. The soluble fiber significantly reduces your risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Dr. Bowden further says that beta-glucans boost the immune system by activating white blood cells to fight bacteria, fungi and cancer cells.
Function of Complex Carbohydrates
Raw oats are a source of complex carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is used as your primary source for energy. In "The Food Bible," author Judith Wills says that grains such as raw oats have a low glycemic load because they are complex carbohydrate. This means that raw oats have a slight effect on blood sugar. Type 2 diabetics typically benefit from complex carbohydrates, which are helpful in stabilizing blood sugar levels.
Significance of Protein
In "The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth," oats are identified as having the highest protein count out of any popular cereal or grain. A typical serving of oats contains about 8 g of protein. Raw oats combined with low-fat or nonfat milk provides all the essential amino acids, or building blocks of protein. Protein functions by maintaining healthy skin, hair, nails, bones and muscles. It is also essential for the regulation of body functions such as metabolism.
Function of Selenium
Raw oats are a selected source of the trace mineral selenium. Selenium is significant in your diet because it acts as an antioxidant. In "The Food Bible," author Judith Wills says that antioxidants help to protect you from heart disease, cancers and premature aging. Selenium works together with another antioxidant called vitamin E to produce prostaglandins. According to Wills, this hormone-like substance is important for healthy skin and hair.
Live Enzymes
In "Raw Energy," author Stephanie Tourles says that the act of heating kills the live enzymes contained in oats. Raw oats retain enzymes, which are protein molecules that are essential in many bodily functions. Tourles states that enzymes play a role in digesting food and aiding in detoxification. Enzymes also build protein in the bones, skin and various muscles and tissues.
References
- "Raw Food Detox Diet: The Five-Step Plan for Vibrant Health and Maximum Weight Loss"; Natalia Rose; 2006
- "The Food Bible"; Judith Wells; 1998
- "The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth"; Jonny Bowden, Ph. D., C.N.S.; 2007
- "Raw Energy"; Stephanie Tourles; 2007
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