Just two days of oatmeal cut bad cholesterol by 10%
Science Daily
February 25, 2026
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Eating a diet rich in oatmeal for just two days can lead to significant improvements in heart health, according to a recent study published in *Nature Communications*. Researchers at the University of Bonn found that participants with metabolic syndrome who followed an oat-based, calorie-restricted plan experienced a 10% reduction in harmful LDL cholesterol, along with modest weight loss and lower blood pressure. These benefits persisted for up to six weeks after the trial ended. The study highlights the potential of incorporating oats into short-term dietary interventions to improve cardiovascular health.
Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that increases the risk of diabetes and heart disease, including excess body fat, high blood pressure, and abnormal lipid levels. In this study, 32 participants consumed 300 grams of oatmeal daily for two days, with minimal additions of fruits or vegetables. This oat-rich diet reduced their calorie intake by about half compared to usual consumption. While both the oat group and a control group that ate fewer calories but no oats saw some health improvements, those who ate oats experienced much stronger benefits, particularly
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Originally published on Science Daily on 2/25/2026