Oatmeal's health claims strongly reaffirmed, science shows

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Oatmeal's health claims strongly reaffirmed, science shows

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2008-01/uok-ohc010808.php

A new scientific review of the most current research shows the link

between eating oatmeal and cholesterol reduction to be stronger than

when the FDA initially approved the health claim's appearance on

food labels in 1997.

Dr. W. , professor of medicine and clinical nutrition

at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, co-authors " The

Oatmeal-Cholesterol Connection: 10 Years Later " in the

January/February 2008 issue of the American Journal of Lifestyle

Medicine.

presents a contemporary analysis to determine if newer

studies are consistent with the original conclusion reached by the

FDA. His report says studies conducted during the past 15 years

have, without exception, shown:

total cholesterol levels are lowered through oat consumption;

low-density lipoprotein (LDL, the " bad " cholesterol) is reduced

without adverse effects on high-density lipoprotein cholesterol

(HDL, the " good " cholesterol), or triglyceride concentrations.

" Whole-grain products like oatmeal are among some of the best foods

one can eat to improve cholesterol levels, in addition to other

lifestyle choices, " said. " Lifestyle choices, such as diet,

should be the first line of therapy for most patients with moderate

cholesterol risk given the expense, safety concerns, and intolerance

related to cholesterol lowering drugs. "

More recent data indicate that whole-grain oats, as part of a

lifestyle management program, may confer health benefits that extend

beyond total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol reduction,

said.

Recent studies suggest eating oatmeal may:

Reduce the risk for elevated blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and

weight gain

Reduce LDL cholesterol during weight-loss

Provide favorable changes in the physical characteristics of LDL

cholesterol particles, making them less susceptible to oxidation

(oxidation is thought to lead to hardening of the arteries.)

Supply unique compounds that may lead to reducing early hardening of

the arteries

" Since the 80's, oatmeal has been scientifically recognized for its

heart health benefits, and the latest research shows this evidence

endures the test of time and should be embraced as a lifestyle

option for the millions of Americans at-risk for heart disease, "

said .