Did you know this is National Oatmeal Month? I thought it would only be fitting to pay tribute to what we usually think of as only a breakfast food.

The Benefits of  Oats

Studies show that eating 3 servings of whole grains (like oats) per day can reduce the effects of and even prevent heart disease, stroke, Type 2 Diabetes, and certain cancers. Eating whole grains can reduce the risk of asthma and lower blood pressure as well as cholesterol levels. Another added benefit is that the soluble fiber found in whole grains can give the body a sense of fullness that may aid in weight loss by reducing hunger.

More Information on Oatmeal and Controlling Type 2 Diabetes

Oatmeal in its most natural form is the oat. The whole grain is then cut, crushed, or ground down into smaller pieces of soluble fiber.

The soluble fiber in oatmeal is consider low on the glycemic index scale. It digests slowly and provides a gradual release of glucose into the bloodstream. Type 2 Diabetes is non-insulin dependent and is usually controlled by medication, diet, and/or weight management. Making oatmeal part of a balanced diet can help maintain normal sugar levels and help control weight, which may help to prevent the onset of Type 2 Diabetes.

Oatmeal Does The Body Good on the Inside & Outside

We all know that oatmeal can be great as a breakfast food as well as in bread, cookies, and meatloaf. Did you know it can help soothe eczema too?

Eczema is a skin condition resulting in potentially severe rashes and may be treated through the use of oatmeal baths. Since many products used to treat eczema can actually burn and irritate skin upon application, oatmeal can be an ideal treatment option as it soothes the skin and eliminates itching. To prepare an oatmeal bath, just add in a few handfuls of finely ground or milled dry oatmeal to your warm bath water. You’ll want to avoid overly hot water as that causes continuing dryness and irritation.  You might like to make your own oatmeal soaps and soothers! Be sure to check out the DIY oatmeal remedies posted on our Pinterest board, Folk  & Home Remedies.

Do you have your own ode to oatmeal? How do you use oatmeal most often in your home? Feel free to post recipes, home remedy ideas and your thoughts in the comment link below.