Effects of oat beta-glucan intake on blood cholesterol: a review

Elevated total and low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels are considered major risk factors for coronary heart disease. Oat is a cereal that is a good source of proteins, fat, minerals and vitamins, as well as soluble fiber, including beta-glucans. Due to the physicochemical characteristics of the beta-glucan, it has been proposed that oats may help reduce blood cholesterol levels and help control postprandial plasma glucose and insulin response. A large body of clinical studies suggests that the consumption of at least 3 g per day of oat beta-glucan, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, which has been approved by several regulatory agencies, as the Food and Drug Administration in the USA and the European Food Safety Authority in Europe.