Does Dr Gundry recommend oatmeal: lectin content, and the best oatmeal alternatives
Are you a fan of oatmeal for breakfast? Oat products have become a staple in the diets of millions of Americans, particularly in breakfast foods like oatmeal, bread, and cereals.
While it may seem like a healthy and nutritious option, Dr. Gundry, a renowned American heart surgeon, has a different view. So does Dr Gundry recommend oatmeal? In this article, we explore what this popular author who advocates for a lectin-free diet, warns about oat-based products that millions, or possibly billions of people consume on a regular basis.
Does Dr Gundry recommend oatmeal? You might be surprised by what he has to say about this food that is often marketed as a healthy breakfast option.
But a recent study might change your perspective if you are still on the fence about oat products and you are not overly concerned about lectins. A recent surrounding glyphosate residue in oat products has shed light on potential health risks associated with consuming these foods.
Consumers are becoming more informed about the dangers of pesticides, are considering risks when making dietary choices, and are seeking out pesticide-free alternatives when possible. [1][2]
Oatmeal is affordable, versatile, and easy to prepare, making it convenient for busy individuals and families. But Does Dr Gundry recommend oatmeal?
The popularity of oat-based products in Western diets
Oat-based products are incredibly popular in Western diets and are found in various breakfast foods such as oatmeal, cereals, and bread. Oats are also used in popular snack products, such as granola bars and energy bites, and used in recipes for baked goods like cookies and muffins.
Additionally, oats have been marketed as a healthy food choice due to their high fiber content and potential health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and lowering cholesterol levels. They are known for their heart-healthy properties and have been associated with benefits such as improved digestion, lowered cholesterol levels, and better blood sugar control. Oats are also considered whole grains, which many consider essential in a whole-food diet.
Furthermore, the rise of specialty diets, such as vegan and gluten-free, has increased oat-based products, as they are naturally gluten-free and can be used as a substitute for gluten-containing ingredients.
What is oatmeal?
Oatmeal is a popular breakfast dish made from oats. It is typically prepared by boiling oats in water or milk until they soften and absorb the liquid, resulting in a creamy and porridge-like consistency. Oatmeal can be enjoyed plain, but it is often flavored with various ingredients such as sweeteners (e.g., sugar, honey, or maple syrup), fruits, nuts, spices (e.g., cinnamon), or dairy/non-dairy milk.
Oats, the main ingredient in oatmeal, come from the oat plant (Avena sativa). They are whole grains that are rich in nutrients like dietary fiber, vitamins (such as thiamin and folate), minerals (such as manganese and phosphorus), and antioxidants.
The Study: Unveiling Alarming Findings
A study by Friends of the Earth (FOE), an international network of environmental organizations, examined major brands of oat-based products available in popular supermarkets across the United States.
The study aimed to test these products for residues of toxic pesticides, focusing on those commonly consumed by children and families.
Toxic pesticides, including Glyphosate were found in 100% of the tested brands. It is widely used as a herbicide in the U.S., and is known for its presence in products like Roundup.
Glyphosate is used in crops like oats, wheat, and beans. It is primarily used to control weeds and problematic plants. Unfortunately, it is applied just before harvest. This practice, known as “desiccation,” speeds up the drying process, allowing farmers to harvest earlier.
However, the concern arises due to the close application of Glyphosate to the crop, potentially leading to its presence in our food. However, applying Glyphosate so close to harvest raises a significant concern for our food’s glyphosate residue level, which carries the risk of causing cancer.
So the presence of Glyphosate is not just limited to farming products. It is in everyday food products such as cereals, bread, crackers, and other processed foods, which may pose health risks. [3][4]
The FOE study found glyphosate residue in oat products at an average level of 360 parts per billion (ppb), twice the healthy benchmark of 160 ppb set by the Environmental Workers Group (EWG). This benchmark states that there is approximately a one-in-a-million lifetime health risk posed by ingesting 0.01 mg of Glyphosate per day –– or 160 ppb.
Some oat-based products in the study contained up to 1000 ppb of Glyphosate.
Interestingly, the Environmental Workers Group (EWG) conducted a similar study in 2018, focusing on Glyphosate in cereals. They discovered that all 28 samples of popular oat cereals marketed to children contained Glyphosate. The majority of these samples exceeded the EWG’s safe levels of ppb. One sample astonishingly contained 2,837 ppb.
These findings are a good reason to consider the risks associated with oat-based products and choose pesticide-free alternatives for breakfast foods. [5][6]
Ingestion of oat-based products containing glyphosate levels of 360 ppb is more than double the risk. In light of this study’s alarming results, Dr. Gundry advises avoiding oat-based products and other grains in one’s diet. oat-based products are now on Dr. Gundry’s NO list. It’s time to pick pesticide-free alternatives rather than risking our health. [7][8][9]
Glyphosate and its Risks
The World Health Organization (WHO) considers glyphosate “probably carcinogenic,” and numerous studies have linked it to adverse health effects. The chemical has been linked to various health issues, including cancer, leaky gut syndrome, autoimmune diseases, and allergies. A groundskeeper in California won a lawsuit claiming that Roundup caused his terminal illness.
Ingestion of Glyphosate can result in damage to the liver, kidneys, and gastrointestinal system. Children, in particular, are at a higher risk of exposure as they have a higher dietary exposure to Glyphosate and other pesticides. Glyphosate residue has been detected in all types of wheat, beans, oats, and other highly consumed crops. These alarming findings highlight the potential dangers associated with glyphosate exposure.
EWG urges food companies like General Mills, Quaker, and Kellogg’s to stop spraying crops with Glyphosate and eliminate this harmful chemical from our food altogether. [10][11] As consumers, it is essential to take a proactive stance in
making dietary choices that minimize exposure to this harmful herbicide.
Glyphosate free oats
So you may be wondering if the best option is to find glyphosate free oats. Oats without glyphosate and oatmeal without glyphosate will be a step towards safer, pesticide-free food, however according to Dr Gundry; glyphosate is not the only issue that can cause poor gut health and inflammation that can lead to health issues such as autoimmune diseases.
Lectins can also be a cause or contributor to ill health in many people, and as someone who has gained control of my health thanks to a low-lectin diet, I can personally attest to this.
The Role of Lectins in inflammation and poor gut health
Lectins are a type of protein found in many plants, including grains like oats. These proteins have been a subject of concern in Dr. Gundry’s approach to eating due to their potential adverse effects on human health. Research suggests that lectins can interact with the lining of the gut, leading to increased intestinal permeability or “leaky gut” syndrome. This condition can allow toxins and undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation and contributing to various health issues.
Oats are relatively high in lectins compared to some other foods, and as oats are the main ingredients in oatmeal, it, too contains a relatively high lectin content.
Gluten Cross-Reactivity
Another concern associated with oat products is gluten cross-reactivity. While oats do not contain gluten, they can become contaminated with gluten during processing, transportation, or storage. This cross-contamination poses a risk for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Studies have shown that some individuals with celiac disease may experience immune reactions when exposed to specific proteins in oats, resembling the responses triggered by gluten consumption.
Dr. Gundry’s stance on oat products: Does Dr Gundry recommend oatmeal?
Does Dr Gundry recommend oatmeal? Dr. Gundry strongly advises against the consumption of oat-based products in alignment with his eating program known as the “Gundry Way.” He warns that oats, laden with lectins, can damage the gut lining and contribute to various health issues. Historical evidence from ancient Egyptians and studies on children in England further support his stance, suggesting that oats are not as healthy as we believed.
Dr Gundry’s eating program and his advice regarding grains
Dr. Steven Gundry’s advice regarding grains, including oats, is that they contain lectins and are often sprayed with Glyosulphate and other toxic chemicals that can lead to poor gut health, resulting in health problems.
Instead of grains, Gundry suggests consuming pasture-raised meats, eggs from organic pasture-raised chickens, and healthy fats like olive oil. He also recommends limited fruit consumption. Leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, and fermented foods like sauerkraut are other staples in Gundry’s eating program.
When it comes to breakfast foods, Gundry suggests avoiding oat-based products, especially in light of the recent findings by the Friends of the Earth Study and the Environmental Workers Group. Instead, Gundry suggests using pesticide-free, lectin-free alternatives to oat-based breakfast foods. Gundry believes that people can improve their gut health and overall well-being by following his eating program. [12][13]
Healthy Alternatives: Embrace Millet and Sorghum
Dr. Gundry recommends embracing millet and sorghum for people seeking alternatives to oat-based products. These grains are lectin-free and offer excellent nutritional benefits. Millet, in particular, includes a variety called “fornio” that closely resembles the taste and texture of Cream of Wheat, providing a satisfying breakfast experience without the harmful lectins found in oats.
Pesticide-free alternatives to oat-based breakfast foods
If you want to avoid oat-based breakfast foods due to the risks associated with Glyphosate, don’t worry – plenty of pesticide-free alternatives exist. Here are some great options to consider:
1. Millet or Sorghum Porridge: This delicious and nutritious breakfast option is made by boiling either millet or sorghum or a mixture of the two until it develops a pudding-like texture. Add organic berries, which are low in lectins, walnuts or crushed blanched almonds, and other low-lectin toppings for a satisfying meal.
If you want a little sweetness to your pudding, try blending the berries instead and mixing them through, or add a sprinkling of monk fruit sweetener which is Plant Paradox diet compliant.
2. Sweet Potato Toast: Instead of using bread made with grains, try toasting slices of sweet potato and topping them with almond butter, avocado, or other healthy options.
3. Smoothie bowls: Blend up a combination of organic berries, vegetables, walnuts, blanched almonds, hemp seeds, or tahini in your favorite smoothie and top it with fresh berries and other toppings for a satisfying and pesticide-free breakfast.
4. Eggs: Eggs are a great source of protein and can be prepared in so many ways for a delicious breakfast. Try scrambled, boiled, or poached eggs with fresh organic vegetables for a nutritious start to your day.
Many other great pesticide-free alternatives exist, so feel free to get creative with your breakfast options. With a little bit of experimentation, you’re sure to find some delicious and healthy options that work for you [14][15]
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Does Dr Gundry recommend oatmeal? Our summary
Emerging scientific research and recent studies have raised concerns about oat-based products’ safety and health implications. The presence of glyphosate residues, lectins, and potential gluten cross-reactivity are reasons Dr. Gundry advises against consuming oatmeal and oat-based products.
Results of FOE’s study are a good reason to avoid oat-based products and other grains in your diet – just as Dr. Gundry advises as part of his eating program. Exploring alternative grains like millet and sorghum can provide similar nutritional benefits without the associated risks.
Considering the risks associated with oat-based products when making dietary choices and opting for pesticide-free alternatives is imperative. [16][17] As always, staying informed about the latest scientific research and consulting with healthcare professionals or registered dietitians is crucial to make well-informed decisions regarding individual dietary needs and health concerns.
It’s important to note that Glyphosate is deemed as probably carcinogenic by the World Health Organization and poses a significant health risk. Understanding the scope of glyphosate contamination in our food supply is critical. It is alarming and is a reason to avoid oat-based products and other grains, as advised by Dr. Gundry as part of his eating program.
Want to learn the finer details about the dietary changes I made, in addition to following the Fasting Mimicking Diet do it yourself menu menu, to improve my gut health?
