Before insulin was discovered in 1921, treating diabetes was a major challenge for medicine. One of the strategies used at that time was the so-called “oat cure,” which helped many diabetic patients live longer and maintain more stable glucose levels in the absence of an effective pharmacological treatment.
In this article, we will examine the role of oats in managing conditions such as insulin resistance and provide a practical guide on how to prepare them to maximize their benefits.
Understanding Metabolism a Little Better
Glucose metabolism is an essential process that takes place in our body every time we eat. When we consume carbohydrates, they are converted into glucose, a type of sugar that enters the bloodstream. If glucose is not efficiently distributed to the muscles, liver, and other cells of the body, it can accumulate in the arteries. As a result, we may experience weakness, intense thirst, increased appetite, and frequent urination.
To prevent this situation, it is crucial for glucose to be converted into energy, and this is where the pancreas plays a key role.
The Role of Insulin and Exercise
The pancreas produces a hormone called insulin, which acts as a key to allow glucose to enter our muscle and liver cells. This process happens automatically; however, exercise, along with foods like vinegar and oats, helps insulin function properly. When we move, our muscles require more energy, making it easier for glucose to enter.
On the other hand, according to a study published in Journal of Clinical Nutrition (you can access it by clicking on this link), the consumption of animal proteins intensifies insulin resistance, making it harder for glucose to enter the cells. As a result, the pancreas produces more insulin, which can lead to cravings for processed foods, contributing to metabolic issues such as diabetes, weight gain, and high blood pressure.
What Are the Benefits of Oatmeal?
Oatmeal has proven to be highly beneficial for managing insulin resistance, as demonstrated in a study that analyzed its use in a critically ill patient. In this case, a low-calorie diet based on oatmeal was implemented, which not only helped improve glucose control but also significantly reduced the daily insulin requirement.
The Case Study
A critically ill patient was fed through a nasogastric tube. At the beginning of the study, the patient required 205 units of insulin and had a glucose level of 246, despite receiving the necessary insulin. However, after eight days of oatmeal-based treatment, the results were remarkable: the patient only needed 42 units of insulin, and glucose levels dropped to 104.
The study’s conclusions indicate that incorporating oatmeal into the diet, along with a low-calorie, plant-based diet, significantly reduced the patient’s average blood glucose levels and daily insulin requirements.
Beyond its positive effects on glucose regulation, this dietary intervention highlights oatmeal’s potential to improve health in clinical settings. The low-calorie diet not only helped manage the patient’s diabetes but also provided essential nutrients for recovery.
If you would like to read the full study, you can access it by clicking on this link.
How to Prepare Oatmeal Properly
Before starting this section, it is essential to highlight the importance of choosing large-flake oatmeal with minimal processing. This type of oatmeal retains its nutritional properties better and provides greater health benefits. The preparation method we propose below is not only easy to follow but also promotes the formation of resistant starch, a compound that helps lower blood glucose levels.
Steps to Prepare Oatmeal Flakes
1. Select the Right Oatmeal: Choose large-flake oatmeal with minimal processing to preserve its nutritional properties.
2. Prepare It the Night Before: Cook the oatmeal in water (without sugar) until it reaches a gelatinous texture.
3. Refrigerate: Let the oatmeal cool and store it in the refrigerator overnight. This process promotes the formation of resistant starch, which is beneficial for blood glucose regulation.
4. Reheat: The next morning, you can reheat the oatmeal before consuming it.
For a more complete breakfast, we recommend pairing it with berries and nuts. This combination not only enhances the flavor but also provides essential nutrients to your diet.
In Conclusion:
In summary, oatmeal is not just a cereal but a valuable resource for metabolic well-being. From its traditional use in diabetes treatment to its positive impact on insulin resistance, this food stands out as a natural, accessible, and effective alternative. Including it in your diet properly can help stabilize blood glucose levels while contributing to a balanced nutrition.
To maximize its benefits, it is essential to prepare it correctly, as explained in this article. Additionally, complementing your diet with regular exercise and healthy habits will enhance insulin function. Taking care of your health is a priority, and oatmeal can be an excellent starting point in that journey.
You may also be interested in our article: “The Best Breakfast and Lunch Formula for Diabetes and Fatty Liver”, as well as our video: “Oatmeal Explained: From Its Benefits to How to Prepare It Properly,” available on our YouTube channel.
If you’re looking for more health-related information, we invite you to explore our Diabetes or Recipes section.
