Image via WikipediaOats truly are a super food! They lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of certain cancers, help prevent strokes and even lower blood pressure. High in fiber content, oats are great for digestive health. They help control blood sugar levels, and may reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Oats also are a good source of complex carbohydrates, B vitamins, and minerals such as phosphorous, iron, selenium, magnesium, and calcium. These important vitamins and minerals can help ease menstrual symptoms, boost energy, strengthen bones, support a healthy nervous system and raise your metabolism.
A bowl of oatmeal at bedtime can help you to sleep. Not only does it have a calming effect, but it keeps you feeling full. No more getting up in the middle of the night to raid the refrigerator!
Oatmeal also is a great ingredient for a homemade facial scrub. It is a mild exfoliant that will slough off dead skin cells, without irritating sensitive skin.
Here is a simple recipe you can try at home:
To make a mild facial scrub, combine:
1/2 cup honey
2 cups oatmeal
1/3 cup corn meal
Spread the paste gently onto the face and throat area.
Rub it in with a soft, damp wash cloth.
Rinse well with warm water.
Do you want some old fashioned, slow cooked oatmeal that reminds you of the kind your grandmother made?
Try this crockpot recipe for apple spice oatmeal:
You will need:
2 cups milk
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 Tbsp. melted butter
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1 cup regular oats (not quick cooking or instant)
1 cup peeled, chopped apple
1/2 cup chopped dates or raisins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Spray the inside of a 3-4 quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and mix well. .
Cover and turn on LOW setting. Cook 5-7 hours until oatmeal is tender.
Stir well before serving
Irene Helen Zundel is a freelance writer, educator and mother, and an expert in child development, home schooling and creative parenting and home making. Visit her online at http://www.irenehelenzundel.com
