Study co-author Dr. James W. Anderson of the University of Kentucky College of Medicine analyzed studies conducted during the past 15 years on oatmeal and cholesterol and found without exception total cholesterol levels were lower after oat consumption. In addition, low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, the "bad" cholesterol is reduced without adverse effects on high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, or HDL, the "good" cholesterol, or triglyceride concentrations.

"Whole-grain products like oatmeal are among some of the best foods one can eat to improve cholesterol levels, in addition to other lifestyle choices," Anderson said in a statement. "Lifestyle choices, such as diet, should be the first line of therapy for most patients with moderate cholesterol risk given the expense, safety concerns, and intolerance related to cholesterol lowering drugs."

Anderson co-authored the comprehensive research review with Mark Andon, a researcher and nutrition director for Quaker-Tropicana.

The findings are published in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine.