Oats contain soluble fibre and beta-glucan. White blood cells ( WBCs ), warriors of our immune system, have special receptors for the absorption of beta-glucan. Beta-glucan stimulates WBCs and helps them fight off infections.
Beta-glucans also make the body more sensitive to antibiotics and accelerates the healing of wounds. Beta-glucans also enhance the activity of macrophages, neutrophils and natural killer cells to fight a variety of infections caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses and parasites.
Zinc and selenium in oats also help in fighting infections.
Oats help fight off respiratory infections and research has found that those babies who start eating oats earlier are protected against childhood asthma.
Oats are rich in beta-glucan, a potent soluble fibre that helps to keep the glycemic index low when consumed regularly. The high fibre content of oats improves insulin sensitivity and reduces postprandial glucose levels. Beta-glucan fibre may help to prevent sharp rises in blood sugar and insulin levels after eating, and also may benefit gut health.
Those who are overweight or have type 2 diabetes have shown a considerable reduction in their blood sugar levels after the consumption of oats.