Summary
Scientists from the University of Bonn found that eating an oatmeal-heavy diet for just two days can sharply lower bad cholesterol levels in people with metabolic syndrome. The study revealed that after eating mostly oatmeal for two days, participants had lower LDL cholesterol, which is linked to heart issues; these improvements lasted for six weeks. The results suggest that gut bacteria play a role in this cholesterol-lowering effect.
Key Facts
- Researchers conducted the study at the University of Bonn in Germany.
- Participants with metabolic syndrome ate primarily oatmeal for two days.
- The oat-based diet led to a 10% drop in LDL cholesterol in 48 hours.
- Participants lost about two kilograms on average, and blood pressure decreased slightly.
- Six weeks later, LDL levels remained low even after resuming regular eating habits.
- The study showed increased beneficial gut bacteria after the oatmeal diet.
- The research focused on people with metabolic syndrome, but the general process might apply to more people.