Does oatmeal help relieve gastrointestinal discomfort?

　　As a common whole grain, oats are widely eaten because of their soft and glutinous taste and rich nutrition. Many people choose to eat oats when they have gastrointestinal discomfort. Does oatmeal help relieve gastrointestinal discomfort? How to eat oats in different states correctly?

Does oatmeal help relieve gastrointestinal discomfort?

　　Oats have a positive effect on relieving some gastrointestinal discomforts and are especially suitable for mild conditioning. Oats are rich in dietary fiber, of which β-glucan can absorb water and swell, increase stool volume, help promote intestinal peristalsis, and relieve abdominal bloating caused by mild constipation. At the same time, boiled oatmeal is mild in texture and will not irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa. It can form a protective film on the gastrointestinal surface, reduce the friction of food on the mucosa, and has a certain soothing effect on discomfort caused by mild gastritis and indigestion. However, if acute gastrointestinal inflammation or severe discomfort caused by infection cannot be solved by oats alone, targeted treatment is required.

How to eat oats in different states correctly

　　1. Raw oatmeal

　　It needs to be soaked in water for 30 minutes in advance, then add enough water or milk and cook for 15-20 minutes until the particles are soft and waxy. This kind of oatmeal retains complete nutrition and is suitable for people with good gastrointestinal function.

　　2. Instant oatmeal

　　There is no need to cook it for a long time, just brew it with hot water or hot milk above 80℃ for 3-5 minutes and it is ready to eat. The texture is fine and easy to absorb. It is suitable for people with weak gastrointestinal function and poor digestion ability. It is also easy to prepare quickly.

　　3. Oats

　　It can be mixed with rice in a ratio of 1:2 to cook multi-grain rice, or added with water alone to cook oatmeal. Soaking it for 1 hour before cooking can make it taste softer and waxier, making it suitable for daily staple food.

　　4. Oat bran

　　Take 1-2 spoons and add it to warm porridge, milk or soy milk and stir evenly. It has high fiber content and is suitable for people who need to regulate their intestinal tract. Please be careful not to consume too much for the first time.

　　5. Oat flour

　　Make a paste with cold water, then add boiling water and stir until thickened. It has a smooth taste and is easy to swallow. It is suitable for the elderly, children or those with gastrointestinal discomfort. You can add sugar to taste according to your preference.

　　As a daily food, oats can assist in gastrointestinal conditioning, but you need to choose the appropriate type and consumption method according to your own situation. When eating, be sure to cook it thoroughly to avoid bloating caused by excessive consumption. Pairing it with other ingredients can make the nutrition more balanced.