If you're like us, you appreciate the simple things in life—like a warm, comforting bowl of porridge. At first glance, it may seem like just a straightforward meal made from simmered grains, but its nutritional profile reveals an array of benefits.
In addition, a teaspoon of Haskapa Powder or a drizzle of Haskapa Juice gives an extra anthocyanin and antioxidant boost for a powerhouse breakfast.
1. Oats and heart health
Numerous studies have confirmed the benefits of oats for cardiovascular health. The nutrient composition of oats is well-balanced with both carbs and fibre. Rich in beta-glucans and soluble fibre, oats effectively help in managing cholesterol and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. A teaspoon or two of Haskapa Powder stirred into the bowl adds important anthocyanins which also have cardioprotective effects1.
2. Steady energy release
Do you often feel a dip in energy before lunchtime? Oats are filled with complex carbohydrates that release energy gradually, helping you stay alert and energised throughout the morning. The soluble fibre in oats also helps improve our sense of fullness, helping to resist the urge for snacking during the morning. Adding Haskapa Powder also helps to satiate the need for something sweet.
3. Digestive health
Fibre plays a crucial role in supporting your immune system, and porridge is rich in prebiotic fibre, which stimulates the growth and activity of our beneficial gut bacteria, while inhibiting the growth of less desirable strains of bacteria2. Porridge may help support digestive movement and reduce constipation in adults.
4. Protective properties
Whole oats contain beneficial polyphenols, which possess antioxidant qualities. Among these, avenanthramides may reduce blood pressure levels by encouraging the generation of nitric oxide, which in turn relaxes blood vessels and enhances circulation, making them an excellent breakfast choice3, especially when combined with Haskapa Powder.
5. Helpful for weight control and cholesterol.
Choosing a no-sugar-added breakfast like porridge can be pivotal for weight management. The high fibre content in porridge aids in keeping you full and satisfied, helping curb cravings for sugary snacks later in the morning, especially when adding Haskapa Powder or drizzling Haskapa Juice into your bowl. In addition, many studies have shown that the beta-glucan fibre in oats is effective at reducing both total and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels4.
- Rupasinghe HPV, Arumuggam N, Amararathna M, De Silva ABKH. (2018) The potential health benefits of haskap (Lonicera caerulea L.): Role of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside. Journal of Functional Foods. 44. 24-39. 10.1016/j.jff.2018.02.023.
High anthocyanin intake is associated with a reduced risk of myocardial infarction in young and middle-aged women. Cassidy A, Mukamal KJ, Liu L, Franz M, Eliassen AH, Rimm EB. Circulation. 2013 Jan 15;127(2):188-96
Habitual intake of anthocyanins and flavanones and risk of cardiovascular disease in men. Cassidy A, Bertoia M, Chiuve S, Flint A, Forman J, Rimm EB. Am J Clin Nutr 2016;104:587–94.
Habitual intake of flavonoid subclasses and incident hypertension in adults. Cassidy A, O’Reilly ÉJ, Kay C, Sampson L, Franz M, Forman JP, Curhan G, Rimm EB.Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 Feb;93(2):338-47.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31960663/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6126071/
- https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1143682/full