Is Eating Raw Oats Healthy?

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Oats (Avena sativa) are a popular whole grain food consumed worldwide. They’re linked to many health benefits and comprise a wholesome nutritional value.

Is it healthy to eat raw oats? Eating raw oats is healthy, however it is recommended to soak the oats before consuming. Soaked oats absorb the liquid which reduces phytic acid, and increases digestibility and nutrient absorption.

There are many types of oats allowing for various recipes that can be enjoyed both cooked and raw.

This article discusses whether eating raw oats is healthy, benefits of raw oats and the best way to eat raw oats.

What are raw oats?

Oats are a whole grain food that are enjoyed worldwide. They are easy to prepare, offer a well balanced nutritional value and most noteworthy, they are cheap and easily accessible.

The human body is unable to digest whole oat kernels. Before consumption, the seed must be processed to remove the inedible outer shell to expose the edible grain [1].

The processing of raw oat grains starts with separating the hull or husk from the oat groats. 

The outer shell is termed oat fiber, which is a keto-friendly food used in smoothies, baked goods and as a binder for ground meat. 

The final products are rolled oats, quick oats and instant oats, which all undergo the same steaming, rolling and drying process. The major difference is the sizing of the final result.

A popular breakfast item, oat flakes can be enjoyed both cooked or raw.

Flaked oats can be prepared in baked goods, boiled to make oatmeal porridge, or served raw in overnight oats and oatmeal smoothies.

As a matter of fact, due to the steaming process it is fair to say that rolled oats are actually not completely raw. Heating does make the oats more digestible, so technically they are not really raw.

Though they have not been boiled, old fashioned oats have been heated during rolling processing. As a result, they have undergone improved digestion and are not completely raw.

Raw Oats Nutritional Value

Oats are commended for their high fiber content, but they are also a source for healthy fats, plant based protein and essential nutrients [2].

Aside from including essential nutrients like calcium, iron, and manganese, oats are packed with both soluble and insoluble fiber. 

Oats contain a specific type of soluble dietary fiber called beta-glucan that forms a gel-like substance inside the digestive tract [4].

Beta glucan is main source of soluble fiber is oats, which is strongly linked to reduced cholesterol levels and increased heart health [5].

Additionally, oats are a source for highly absorbable plant protein that provides a higher value than many other whole grains.

In fact, the protein structure in oats is considered to be highly nutritious [6].

Oats contain more fiber and high-quality protein than other grains, as well as offering an assortment of essential vitamins and minerals.

Health Benefits of Oats

Raw oats are contain a large amount of the soluble fiber beta-glucan, which may lower blood pressure, cholesterol and insulin levels. Eating raw oats may also alleviate constipation and promote a feeling of fullness that can encourage weight loss.

Raw oats are nutritious and safe to eat.

They’re high in the soluble fiber beta-glucan, they make you feel full for longer amounts of time which can discourage unnecessary eating that may aid weight loss, and they improve blood sugar levels, cholesterol, digestion and heart heath.

They’re also affordable and easy to add to your diet. Just remember to soak them before eating to enhance digestibility, palatability and nutrient absorption.

Possible downsides of eating raw oats

Even though it is considered safe to eat raw oats, avoid undesirable side effects by soaking them in water, juice, milk, or dairy free milk alternative.

Oats have a high fiber content, which naturally absorbs moisture from its surroundings. When raw oats are consumed while dry, they will soak up liquids from your digestive tract.

Eating dry raw oats could lead to blockage due to a build up in your stomach or intestines, ultimately causing constipation or indigestion.

Moreover, raw oats contains phytic acid which is an antinutrient that promotes nutrient deficiencies as it binds to minerals like calcium, zinc and iron, making it difficult for your body to absorb them. 

Over time, this can cause significant shortcomings, which generally aren’t a problem if you consume a well-balanced diet.

Soaking raw oats in water is proven to reduce phytic acid and the effects on mineral absorption. For the best nutritional results, soak the oats for at least 12 hours (10, 11, 12).

The phytic acid in raw oats interferes with mineral absorption. Soaking raw oats reduce the amount of phytic acid present in the oats, thereby minimizing the impact. Additionally, soaking activates fermentations which makes digestion easier and softens the oats to help prevent constipation.

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