Diabetes is a prevalent disease that affects more than 34.2 million Americans. It’s also is a leading cause of death. Managing what you eat is an integral part of a diabetic care plan, and one solution is to eat oatmeal. However, one type is a cut above the rest.
Steel-cut oatmeal is processed uniquely. Unlike a typical bag of oatmeal, the steel-cut variety is processed using small blades to cut them—processing oats this way results in grains that take longer to prepare and feel chewier when eaten.
This type of oatmeal is also called Irish oat or coarse oat, and you can find it with these names if you can’t find “steel-cut oatmeal.”
Nutritious Oats
Oats are complex carbohydrates full of fiber. The beta-glucan fiber in oats helps reduce blood sugar and insulin response. Besides being beneficial for people with diabetes, steel-cut oatmeal is the healthiest type. The primary reason is the way it’s made. It’s the least processed variant compared to other types.
Other than containing more nutrients, the glycemic index is also lower at 53.
If you think oatmeal is tasteless, there’s still hope to flavor it. Adding some fresh fruit, almonds, or flax seeds can help spice up the bowl of oatmeal. However, dried fruits have a higher sugar and calorie content, making them less suitable.
Staying Healthy
While steel-cut oatmeal is healthy, there’s no reason not to add some extra toppings. Ensure you keep an eye on your sugar level, and consult with your doctor if you’re unsure about any additions.
