Granola has traditionally been considered a breakfast meal. But over time, food brands and chefs have innovated and made this crunchy ingredient something that we can chomp on at any time of the day.
Let’s start by understanding what exactly is Granola?
Granola is made up of rolled oats, which are oat groats that have been pressed flat and lightly steamed with honey, nuts, seeds and puffed rice. This mixture is then baked until crispy.
Now all these ingredients are full of fiber and good fats, which make it a nutrient-dense food. So here are the health benefits of this nutrient dense food.
Weight Loss
Oats and whole grains are high-fiber foods and fill you up, keeping you feeling fuller for longer. Studies have found eating a high-fiber diet can help you lose weight.
Disease Prevention
Dried fruit and nuts also contain antioxidants, like vitamin E, which can lower inflammation in the body. Antioxidants prevent cell damage that can cause serious diseases such as cancer.
Improves Blood Pressure
Flaxseeds, fruits and whole grains are known to reduce high blood pressure. So by adding granola to your regular diet which should be rich in whole grains and vegetables may reduce the amount of medication you need to take.
Lowers Cholesterol Levels
Beta-Glucan - a compound found in oats has been shown to reduce levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) or bad cholesterol.
Reduces High Blood Sugar
Whole grains and dried fruits contain fiber. So eating more fiber slows the rate at which your body digests sugar and carbohydrates, thereby preventing a spike in blood sugar levels.
Boosts Gut Health
Certain grains in granola contain prebiotic fiber, which may increase the levels of healthy gut bacteria compared to cereals made with refined grains.
