Eating a bowl of oatmeal for breakfast is a very healthy way to start the day, but do you know why? What is it that makes it so special, and how much of it should you eat?

Unless you're allergic to oats, there's no reason for you not to eat them. If you have celiac disease or a gluten allergy, you'll want to check the label; oats are naturally gluten-free, but many are processed in the same facilities wheat is, so unless a brand is certified gluten-free, there may be some stray gluten floating around.

Oats are whole grains, which means they haven't been stripped of their nutritious bran and germ. Different processing methods will affect the cooking time and texture of the cooked oatmeal, but not the nutrients of the oats themselves, so whether they are rolled, steel-cut or instant, they are a good source of B vitamins, minerals, and soluble fiber and so much more!

So, is oatmeal actually healthy?

In short: yes, absolutely. They’re actually one of the best foods out there for heart health, thanks to its levels of beta-glucan (a type of fiber that can lower your cholesterol naturally) and avenanthramides (antioxidants that can clean the plaque from your arteries). Oatmeal is also a great pick if you’re watching your weight, thanks to its combination of fiber and water, which causes it to expand in your gut like a sponge so it keeps you feeling full for hours.

In this app, we prepared a science-based breakdown with the latest findings and health benefits of that morning bowl of oatmeal.

So, what are you waiting for? Download this app and let’s start to reap the benefits!