Are Oats Inflammatory or Anti-Inflammatory? Let’s Get the Oat-standing Truth!

Oats have long been a breakfast favourite, packed with fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants. But if you've ever found yourself wondering, “Are oats inflammatory?” or “Do oats cause inflammation?”, the answer isn’t as cut and dry as your morning porridge.

Let’s break it down and separate the oat-facts from the oat-fiction.

What Is Inflammation, and Why Does It Matter?

Inflammation is your body’s way of saying, “Hey, something’s not right!” It’s a natural response to injury, infection, or harmful stimuli. But when inflammation sticks around longer than it should (hello, chronic inflammation), it can lead to serious health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.

That’s why many people seek out anti-inflammatory foods to help keep things running smoothly. But where do oats fit into the mix?

Do Oats Cause Inflammation?

There’s a common misconception that oats contribute to inflammation. The truth? Oats are not the enemy! In fact, they’re packed with anti-inflammatory compounds that can actually help reduce inflammation in the body.

Oats: The Good Stuff

✔ Rich in avenanthramides – Special plant compounds that help fight inflammation
✔ High in fibre and protein – Supports gut health and keeps blood sugar stable
✔ Packed with vitamins and minerals – Because your body deserves the good stuff

But Some People May Be Sensitive to Oats

⚠ Contain avenin – A protein that can trigger reactions in about 5% of people with coeliac disease
⚠ Possible cross-contamination – Many oats are processed in facilities that also handle gluten grains

If you’re sensitive to gluten, make sure you opt for pure oats that are processed separately, because no one wants an oat-astrophe in their gut!

Try a sample pack of our oats here.

Other Things to Consider When Eating Oats

• Too many oats = high in carbs – They’re nutritious, but portion control still matters!

• Balance is key – Oats are great, but they shouldn’t be your only food source.

• Bloating? It happens! – Introducing fibre too quickly can lead to some, uh, rumblings. Soaking your oats or easing them into your diet can help.

Oats and Gluten Sensitivity

One reason oats get a bad rap for being inflammatory is the risk of gluten cross-contamination. If you’re avoiding gluten to help manage inflammation, pure oats are your best bet. These are processed separately from wheat, rye, and barley; so you can oat with confidence!

Are Oats Anti-Inflammatory? Oat Yeah, They Are!

Oats aren’t just a breakfast staple, they’re also packed with nutrients that support your body’s natural defenses against inflammation.

1. Avenanthramides: Oats’ Anti-Inflammatory Secret Weapon

Oats contain avenanthramides, a group of powerful polyphenols that:
✔ Help reduce inflammation at a cellular level
✔ Provide antioxidant benefits to combat oxidative stress
✔ Support heart health by improving blood vessel function

2. Oats and Gut Health

Soluble fibre (especially beta-glucan) in oats is a gut’s best friend:
✔ Feeds good gut bacteria, helping to lower inflammation
✔ Helps regulate blood sugar levels, reducing inflammatory spikes
✔ Supports digestion, making everything run a little smoother

3. Oats and Immune Health

Beta-glucans in oats can enhance immune function by stimulating white blood cells. It helps your body tackle inflammation before it becomes a problem.

How to Eat Oats for Maximum Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

✅ Stick with Whole or Rolled Oats – Instant oats can have added sugars and fewer nutrients.
✅ Boost with Anti-Inflammatory Toppings – Berries, nuts, chia seeds, and turmeric? Yes, please!
✅ Choose Pure Oats – If you’re sensitive to gluten, go for certified gluten contamination free oats.
✅ Soak your oats – Soaking oats makes them easier to digest. Why not try some overnight oats

Looking for the Best Oats?

If you’re ready to enjoy all the oat-standing benefits without worrying about gluten contamination or hidden nasties, it’s time to grab yourself a pack of high-quality pure oats. Whether you love them warm and creamy, blended into smoothies, or turned into delicious overnight oats, investing in the right oats means you’re giving your body the best fuel possible.

So go on... embrace the oat life! Your gut (and taste buds) will thank you.

Ready to try our oats for Free? 

If you are new to oats and want to try a sample, why not give our Oaty Starter Pack a go!?  Add our Oaty Starter Pack to your cart and use the code OATYSTARTER at checkout to get the product for free – all you need to do is cover the shipping!