Oats Boost Nutrient Uptake

KUOPIO, FinlandA  new study found large amounts of oats, both kilned and unkilned, in a gluten-free diet (GFD) can increase intakes of nutrients in celiac patients in remission; oats improve the nutritional value of a GFD (Eu J Clin Nutr. 2010;64:62-37). Oats have been previously shown to improve intakes of vitamin B1, fiber, magnesium and iron in celiac patients using a GFD. The study group consisted of 13 men and 18 women with celiac disease in remission. The patients who were earlier using moderate amount of oats as part of their GFD were randomized to consume kilned or unkilned oats. After six months, the patients changed the treatment groups. The goal of daily intake of oats was 100g.

Type of oats did not affect the amount of oats used. In the group using kilned oats, the intake of vitamin B1 and magnesium, and in the group of unkilned oats magnesium and zinc increased significantly during the first six months.