Nutritional value
Oats are the most nutritious of all cereals - rich in protein-building amino acids, beneficial fat and soluble fibre, with an array of minerals including calcium, potassium, magnesium, zinc and iron. Their B vitamins includes niacin, thiamin, riboflavin and, especially, biotin, and there is also some folic acid and vitamin E.
Energy is absorbed slowly from oats, helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels, so oats are useful in diabetic diets. They may also help prevent heart disease and cancer. Eat oats regularly, even daily, in the following forms, although steaming causes some loss of B vitamins.
* Pinhead oatmeal: chopped kernels, coarse or fine
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
