Diabetes is a chronic condition characterised by high blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia). Diabetes is caused by a defect in insulin secretion or insulin action. Insulin is the main hormone regulating glucose uptake from blood into muscle and fat cells.

Here’s how oats can help. Porridge Oats are hugely beneficial due to their multifunctional characteristics and nutritional profile. Oats provide a rich source of dietary fibre beta glucan, minerals and other nutrients. Beta glucans have been tested to be effective in lowering blood glucose concentrations and decreasing hyperlipidemia (raised blood lipids) and hypertension (raised blood pressure). In patients with type 2 diabetes who were given oats or oat bran rich foods, showed much lower rises in blood sugar. This is because oats rich in fibre reduce the feeling of hunger caused by rapid decreases in blood glucose for longer.

By starting the day with a bowl of porridge oats this can help keep blood sugar levels under control.