Everyone is raving about oats, but because there are different types, people who are starting out can end up quite confused at the time of placing it in the shopping cart.
Traditional rolled oats or cut oat grains? If you are not sure what type of oatmeal to choose, the following explanation should clear things up for you.
Traditional oat flakes
To obtain them, the grains are steamed and then passed through rollers (hence their English name is rolled oats), giving them their characteristic flat and oval shape. They need more cooking than quick varieties, but less than cut oat grains. They are usually used for breakfast, granola, bars and breads.
Cut oat grains
It is also called Irish oats or steel-cut oats, since its process of obtaining uses cutting rather than crushing. That gives it an appearance similar to chopped rice. Takes longer to cook than flakes, although for many people the effort is worth it. They are ideal for purridge-type breakfasts.
Comparison
Nutritionally speaking, the differences are minimal. They provide almost the same amount of calories, fiber, protein and calcium. In equal conditions, you have to opt for what is less processed, and in this case it is the cut oat grains. Because of this, they have the lowest glycemic load of the three breakfast options, with flakes being the second best option and quick oats last. Foods with a low GI slow down the rate of glucose absorption, making us feel full for longer. In addition to being noticeable in energy levels, it also helps you lose weight.