Many health experts regard oatmeal as “a power food”. Studies associate it with steady energy, and its high concentration of beta-glucan and starch is the reason colloidal oatmeal is used to soothe itchy skin. Oatmeal is also a popular part of diets aimed at healthy blood sugar and weight management, so you can see why this food has remained firmly in the cycle of health trends.
However, not all oatmeal is the same, and it is worth knowing what to look for when you choose yours.
Non-Organic Oats and Pesticide Residues
Quaker Oats is one brand whose “natural” label has been questioned. Tests have reported traces of glyphosate in some of its oat products. Glyphosate is the active ingredient in the herbicide that Monsanto sells under the brand name “Roundup”. This is the same chemical commonly used on GM foods like GM corn. As a matter of fact, because of the reported presence of this chemical in its products, Quaker Oats, owned by PepsiCo, was even sued over its labeling.
What’s more, according to the USDA Pesticide Data Program, conventionally grown oats can carry residues of a number of other pesticides, such as piperonyl butoxide, malathion, metolachlor, chlorpyrifos-methyl, and propiconazole.
Some studies have linked exposure to chlorpyrifos during pregnancy to developmental problems in children. Although it was withdrawn from household use in the early 2000s, related compounds have continued to be used in agriculture. Residues found in food are usually within legal limits, but many people prefer to reduce their exposure where they can. Instant oatmeal can also include a lot of sugar, salt, and artificial sweeteners, so a simple way to avoid all of this is to buy plain, organic oats.
A Lot of Commercial Oats Contain Gluten Too
Although pure oats don’t contain gluten, they can often be contaminated during growing and manufacturing when they come into contact with bits of barley, wheat, or rye. So if you try to follow a gluten-free diet, many brands of oatmeal will probably be unsuitable. If you have celiac disease, ask your doctor or dietitian which oats are right for you.
But some companies that do sell oats labeled gluten-free are:
- Bob’s Red Mill;
- Arrowhead Mills;
- Holly’s Oatmeal;
- GF Harvest;
- Udi’s Gluten-Free;
- Montana Gluten-Free.
As you can see, there are good options, so don’t let this put you off oats. The right oatmeal is a great source of nutrients and an excellent meal to start the day.
Via David Wolfe | Upper Perk
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always talk to your doctor about any health concern.