The present invention relates generally to a composition or an oat extract comprising at least one avenanthramide compound or an analogue thereof and at least one β-glucan compound at predetermined ratios and having a low salt content. In addition, the present invention relates to a method for preparing such an oat extract, an oat extract obtained by said method, and the use of said composition or oat extract for the preparation of foods, food supplements, cosmetic, pharmaceutical or veterinary preparations. Finally, the present invention relates to foods, food supplements, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals or veterinary preparations comprising said composition or oat extract.