Inflamed in the Brain
Ever wish you could have a candid conversation with a dietitian who’s been there, done that, and clear all the confusion around anti-inflammatory nutrition? Well! That’s exactly what you’ll hear when you tune into the Inflamed in the Brain Podcast with your host and Anti-Inflammatory Dietitian, Krissy Carbo. After her MS diagnosis in 2015, Krissy became a Integrative and Functional Medicine Registered Dietitian who is ready to pull the curtain back and uncomplicate the seemingly complicated nutrition concepts so that busy people like yourself are equipped with the facts and step-by-step strategies you need to overcome the root cause of most modern health issues, inflammation. Tune in and get ready to hear honest answers around all things anti-inflammatory foods, gut health, immune health, stress, snacking, meal prep, body confidence struggles, and more. Whether you’re a fellow autoimmune warrior, dealing with an inflammatory disorder, or just trying to stress less about your health each episode is equipped with digestible nuggets that’ll leave you feeling more confident in your ability to self-care, be your own health advocate, and respect your body in a way that feels authentic to you for life-long success.
Inflamed in the Brain
Why are oats being demonized and how can you eat them without feeling guilty?
In this episode of the "Inflamed in the Brain" podcast, host and registered dietitian Krissy Carbo explores why oats are suddenly being demonized, despite their longstanding reputation as a healthy food. Krissy shares her insights on the latest trends and controversies surrounding oats, including their carb content, links to glyphosate, and how to eat oats in a way that supports your health. She also offers tips for enjoying oats without succumbing to diet culture's "good" or "bad" food labels.
Understanding Oats:
Krissy begins by explaining the different types of oats commonly found in grocery stores:
- Rolled Oats: These are whole oat groats that are steamed and flattened, cooking in about 5-10 minutes. They are used in oatmeal and granola.
- Steel-Cut Oats: These are chopped into small pieces, offering a coarser texture and chewy consistency. They take longer to cook, around 20-30 minutes.
- Quick-Cook Oats: Also known as instant oats, they are pre-cooked and cut into smaller pieces, cooking in just 1-2 minutes.
Why Are Oats Considered Bad?
Krissy addresses the growing negativity around oats, focusing on two key points:
- Carb Content: Oats are high in carbohydrates, leading to blood sugar spikes when eaten alone. Rapid blood sugar changes can cause fatigue and irritability, and over time, contribute to inflammation and chronic diseases.
- Glyphosate Concerns: General Mills, a popular oat brand, has been linked to high levels of glyphosate, a controversial herbicide associated with cancer risks.
How Oats Can Benefit Your Health:
Despite the criticism, Krissy explains the health benefits of oats:
- Lowering Cholesterol: Oats contain beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that helps lower LDL cholesterol by binding to bile acids and eliminating them from the body.
- Supporting the Microbiome: The fiber in oats acts as a prebiotic, providing nutrition for beneficial gut bacteria, promoting gut health, and reducing inflammation.
A Smarter Way to Eat Oats:
To get the most out of oats without the downsides, Krissy suggests pairing them with protein and healthy fats:
- Overnight Oats: Combine oats with protein powder or yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
- Hot Oatmeal: Add protein powder or eat with eggs, and top with nuts or seeds.
- Oat Milk: If you use oat milk in coffee, add protein to balance the carbs.
Outro:
Krissy concludes by reminding listeners that oats are not inherently bad, but need to be eaten mindfully to support health. She emphasizes the importance of avoiding food labeling and finding balanced ways to incorporate favorite foods into your diet. By removing the stress and pressure associated with diet culture, it's easier to maintain a state of health that's free from inflammation and chronic diseases.
Hungry For More!? Catch Up on these Episodes Next!
Ep. 12: New Year, New You: The Non-Restrictive Approach to a Healthier 2024
Ep. 8: The Secret to making any meal more anti-inflammatory
3 lies about anti-inflammatory eating you need to stop believeing
Follow along:
- https://betterwithcarbo.com/