Question: Do you get the same benefits from an oatmeal bar as a bowl of oatmeal?
I know oatmeal is good for cholesterol and I try to eat a bowl each morning. I saw that they now have oatmeal bars that say they contain the same amount of oatmeal as a bowl of oatmeal but I'm wondering if you get the same benefits from a oatmeal bar as you do from a bowl of oatmeal.
Mary - About.com User
Answer: The soluble fiber found in oatmeal has been shown to lower cholesterol, help to control blood sugar levels and helps to improve digestive function. The oats in oat bars will provide the fiber as well as oatmeal or other oat cereals. Look on the Nutrition Facts label on the oatmeal bar's package to see how much fiber is included. A serving of oatmeal has about three grams of fiber, so look for the same amount from the oatmeal bars. Keep an eye on fat and calories too because oatmeal bars may have added fats and sugars that you don't want.
Source:
Welch RW. "Can dietary oats promote health?" Br J Biomed Sci. 1994 Sep;51(3):260-70
