Meta-analyzes Oatmeal reduces unfavorable blood lipids

A new meta-analysis from Canada shows that oat products are good for heart health. They improve HDL and LDL cholesterol levels. It has long been recognized that eating oat products can lower cholesterol, according to Canadian researchers. So far, however, the studies mainly focused on LDL cholesterol.

Oatmeal changes blood lipid levels positively. Image: Timmary - fotolia

Now, in a meta-analysis of 58 clinical trials involving nearly 4,000 study participants, scientists have demonstrated that oats have an impact on two other cholesterol levels: HDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein B (apoB). Oat contains the fiber beta-glucan, which is probably responsible for the positive effects. In a diet enriched with approximately 3.5 grams of oat beta-glucan per day, the scientists observed a slight improvement in the three cholesterol levels. For the meta-analysis 58 clinical studies with almost 4,000 study participants were analyzed. The study can be found here.

However, it is difficult to cover the recommended amount of beta-glucan only by eating oatmeal. To solve this problem, you could eat more oat bran. A cup of boiled oat bran at 88 calories contains the same amount of beta-glucan as twice the amount of 166 calories oatmeal. (Pm)