WHOLEGRAIN OATS: ROLE IN PREVENTIVE LIFESTYLE FOR MANAGING NONCOMMUNICABLE DISEASES IN INDIA

The burgeoning prevalence of noncommunicable diseases across the globe is a cause of concern due to increased rates of deaths, both in developed and developing economies. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death by noncommunicable diseases and WHO states that 75% of these deaths occur in developing economies. Consumption of suboptimal diets consisting of lesser whole grains, fibre and good-quality proteins is one of the primary modifiable risk factors for metabolic syndrome developing into noncommunicable diseases. Indian diets are predominant in cereals leading to their daily intakes higher than the recommended amounts. Hence, it is imperative to choose the cereals wisely to provide more complex carbohydrates along with essential nutrients like fibre, protein & micronutrients. WHO states that both, the quality and the quantity of nutrients are equally important in a balanced diet to maintain good health. Oat is among the ancient food grains grown and consumed worldwide. It has gained popularity owing to its nutritional composition due to unique fibre, protein and bioactive compounds leading to multifunctional benefits. Beta-glucan is the soluble dietary fibre found in oat grains with proven cholesterol-lowering and antidiabetic effects. Oat proteins are of higher quality than most other cereals. The presence of several bioactive compounds such as phenolic acids, tocopherols, sterols, avenacosides, and especially, avenanthramides increases the nutritional credibility of the grain. The interplay of these nutrients in oat grains, to regulate the gut microflora for immunomodulation, weight management and cardiovascular diseases is also well established. This review aims to focus on oat grains' composition and the contribution of oat-based products in managing noncommunicable diseases to maintain normal health.