"It's a common misconception that one type of oat is healthier than another," said Rizzo. "They are all actually identical in terms of their nutrition. The difference is how they are rolled and cut." However, Price added that since instant oats are the most processed option, they generally have salt and added sugars.
In Summary: Both rolled oats and quick oats are versatile, affordable and highly nutritious sources of whole grains. Rolled oats tend to be slightly higher in nutrients like fibre and protein, and have a slightly lower glycemic index compared to quick oats.
Steel-cut oats, also called Irish oatmeal, are the whole oat kernel that has been cut into two or three pieces using steel disks. This type of oats contains the highest amount of fiber, as it is least processed.
Most porridge oats we come across in the shops are rolled oats, also called old-fashioned oats. These are oat groats, softened by steaming and then rolled into flakes. They absorb liquid quickly so the cooking time is reduced to 5-10 minutes when making porridge or they can be eaten without cooking for more texture.
If rating the best types of oats, the truth is that all oats are pretty good options, with the exception of flavoured varieties that contain added sugars. Overall, steel-cut or whole traditional oats are slighter better thanks to the fact they will be digested more slowly than varieties that are more processed.
A: Great question, and one that we get a lot. There aren't any major differences in the nutrition benefits of the three types of oats. All forms of oats are 100% whole grain, a good source of fiber and have the same nutritional information – same calories, fiber and protein per serving.
You can use quick oats (also known as quick-cooking oats or thin rolled oats) for overnight oats but they will have a softer, slightly mushier texture. I recommend eating them within 48 hours to prevent them from getting soggy.
The steps to perfect porridge. The best way to prepare your rolled oats is to soak them overnight in enough water to cover them (allow half a cup of oats per person). You could add some almonds to pre-soak with the oats. Soaking grains and nuts makes them easier to digest.
Yes, it is good to eat oatmeal every day considering its nutritional profile and health benefits, including weight control and heart-healthy effect. As a breakfast food and mid-meal snack, oatmeal is potentially a better option than the majority of foods available in the market.
If you are particularly trying to shed kilos, steel-cut oats are better as they contain a high amount of fiber. The fiber content in it can keep you fuller for a longer time and control cravings for unhealthy food items. Eating fiber-rich food also improves the count of healthy gut bacteria.
"Steel-cut oats are the least processed [type of oats] and the best option health-wise," says Kylie Ivanir, MS, RD, a registered dietitian with Within Nutrition. "The fibers in them are very healthy for the gut, hormones, satiety, and weight loss."
Whichever porridge you choose, make it with low-fat milk or water to keep the calories down and minimise saturated fat, especially if you are trying to lower your cholesterol levels. Don't add salt, as an excess intake can raise your blood pressure over time, and avoid adding sugar, syrup or honey.
Porridge also has the advantage of containing soluble fibre, which supports good gut and heart health. Now, if we compare this to two slices of wholegrain toast, we're also looking at around 30g of carbohydrates. This is elevated if you choose a bagel, which provides around 50g.
Oats are considered one of the natural superfoods, which are nutrient-rich foods seen as beneficial to your health. Some other examples of superfoods are blueberries, salmon and broccoli. Oats are a natural superfood because they are 100% whole grain with minimal processing, and contain vitamins, minerals and fibre.
Adding water or milk to porridge
The key to cooking a creamy, delicious porridge is the correct ratio of milk to water. Too much milk will make your oatmeal porridge stickier and thicker. No milk at all and your porridge will lack that creamy taste. Of course, you don't have to use milk at all if you don't want to.
An important thing so many people forget is salt. It adds depth to the porridge and will bring out the sweetness of any toppings – so add a pinch of the stuff as it's coming to the boil and mix it all around.
In a large glass jar, combine the oats, milk, yogurt, maple syrup or honey, chia seeds, vanilla cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir well to make sure all the ingredients are combined. Cover with a lid and place in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, remove from the refrigerator and stir.
Quick cook oats can be used but it is not recommended to make them more than one day ahead. Quick cook oats are flattened to help them cook faster and we find they tend to totally breakdown when left to soak more than a day or two. While you can use steel cut oats, they are not recommended for overnight oats.
Tips for making the best overnight oats
Use plain old fashioned rolled oats, not quick oats. Quick oats will get too soggy when soaked with milk. And do not use steel cut oats because they won't soften enough to eat just with milk unfortunately.
If you are looking for the cholesterol-lowering effects, instant oatmeal or quick-cooking oats do the job as well as steel-cut oats or rolled oats. They are still considered to be a whole grain.
There is no particular time to eat oats. You can consume the oats at lunch and dinner too. This cereal, however, is consumed in breakfast mostly. It contains fiber, magnesium, complex carbohydrates, etc, which help in keeping your tummy full for a longer time, thus, reducing overeating.
It's affordable, hearty and healthy. Oats have been shown to decrease cholesterol, help manage diabetes, improve digestion and leave you feeling full longer. Many of its health benefits, especially related to lowering cholesterol, are due to a fibre called beta-glucan.