Why you should get your oats every morning

PORRIDGE sales are soaring with everyone from Kate Moss and Madonna to David Cameron getting their oats.

The lumpy spoonful may not look appealing but health experts say it provides the perfect breakfast.

It's also going down a treat for Pret A Manger. Yesterday the sandwich makers revealed they sell 50,000 bowls a week and demand is growing.

Shona Wilkinson, head nutritionist at The Nutri Centre in London, said: "I've heard from lots of people that it can help boost libido and it may even prevent premature ejaculation.

"To make it even better for you, add protein. I suggest whey protein powder or some nuts and seeds. Porridge is a great, healthy breakfast and a brilliant alternative to sugary cereals."

Here are 13 reasons to ditch the cornflakes and bacon sarnies for a more healthy, oaty start to the day.

BOOST SEX LIFE: Porridge oats can boost libido by helping to rebalance testosterone and oestrogen in the body. Testosterone drives sexual desire in both sexes and men with low levels may go off sex.

QUIT SMOKING: Compounds in oats can help calm the nervous system and reduce nicotine craving.

FIGHT INFECTION: Porridge has more protein than any other cereal and this is needed for growth and repair in the body and to help boost the immune system.

BEAT HEART DISEASE: Studies have shown that fibre-rich food reduces the risk of heart disease. Scientists in the US found that porridge contains avenanthramides - chemicals that stop blood cells sticking to artery walls, preventing fat deposits that cause heart disease.

CUT DIABETES: Porridge might cut the risk of developing diabetes by absorbing sugar from the gut and cutting the need for large quantities of insulin to be released.

BEAT DEPRESSION: Porridge is high in vitamin B6 which promotes the brain chemical serotonin. High levels of serotonin are associated with feelings of wellbeing.

FIGHT FAT: Researchers at Oxford Brookes University found people eating foods with a low glycaemic index - like porridge - were less likely to binge on sugary snacks. These foods release glucose into the body slowly and evenly, leaving you feeling fuller for longer.

LOWER CHOLESTEROL: High levels of soluble fibre in porridge have been shown to lower blood cholesterol. High cholesterol occurs when fat builds up, constricting arteries. Eating oats can improve blood flow and bind cholesterol in the gut, aiding its removal from the body.

RELIEVE CONSTIPATION: High-fibre foods increase the movement of food through the digestive tract.

FIGHT OSTEOPOROSIS: Porridge oats are blended with milk, an excellent source of calcium which is essential for bone health. Lack of calcium can lead to osteoporosis which involves a loss of bone density and can make bones fragile.

CANCER BUSTING: Oats are rich in the antioxidant vitamin E which protects the body from damaging free radicals that can cause cancer.

LOWERS BLOOD PRESSURE: A daily bowl of oats can improve blood pressure control. American scientists found that porridge could lower blood pressure as effectively as any medication.

LIVE LONGER: The lipids found in oats contain a good balance of essential fatty acids which have been linked by American scientists to longevity and good health.

Right, Shona rates Britain's leading porridge brands.

via thesun.co.uk

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