Pick of the bunch

What’s the difference between oats?

What better way to start the day than with a steaming bowl of porridge. But which oats are best – wholegrain, rolled or steel cut?

Nutrition comment

There is no doubt oats are nutritional heroes. They are an excellent source of fibre, including types that lower cholesterol and protect gut health. They are low in kilojoules yet rich in antioxidants, B vitamins, and certain minerals.

Their stabilising effect on blood sugar levels makes them an excellent choice for people with, or at risk of, diabetes. Nutritionally, all three types of oats are similar as they are all made from the whole grain with bran and germ intact.

However, the various ways of processing does lead to other differences – in cooking speed, texture, and effect on blood sugar and satiety.

Bottom line

All three varieties are excellent choices nutritionally and ticked the boxes with our tasters. The steel cut and wholegrain have slight nutritional advantages in being slightly slower to digest, but the rolled are easier and quicker to cook. Go with what you prefer and enjoy, knowing you are looking after your health. ● Products are tested by NZ Registered nutritionist Bronwen King and a diverse, randomly selected group. opposes restricting Saturn, the person who least understands your predicament is probably the one you most need to put off. For more call 0900 30022.