OATS MAY HAVE ADDITIONAL HEART-HEALTHY QUALITIES

Cereals containing oats are often marketed for their supposed cholesterol-lowering properties. But a recent study has found that compounds found in oats may help reduce inflammation inside artery walls.

Research published in the February issue of the journal Free Radical Biology & Medicine found that compounds called avenanthramides contain anti-inflammatory properties that inhibit the action of proinflammatory cytokines. Cytokines are small proteins released by cells seeking to repair tissue. Some cytokines trigger inflammation (often in response to an infection), which can lead to atherosclero¬sis.

Reducing the risk of inflammation through dietary means such as the consumption of oats is seen as an optimal way of lowering your health risks.

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