Cheerios are advertised as a wholesome heart-healthy cereal that lowers cholesterol and provides fiber to the diet. Cheerios can play a role in weight loss or maintenance as not only a breakfast food, but also an evening snack. A 1 cup serving contains only 100 calories and 2 grams of total fat with no saturated fat.
Oats and Starches
Cheerios' main ingredient is whole grain oats including oat bran, which provides the 3 grams of fiber in each bowl. The oats in the cereal is the reason for the advertised cholesterol-lowering effect of the ready to eat cereal. Five to 10 grams of soluble fiber a day has been shown to lower the "bad" LDL cholesterol. A cup of Cheerios contains 1 gram of soluble fiber. An individual would need to eat at least five cups of Cheerios every day to affect cholesterol. Wheat and cornstarch are added as thickeners.
Additives
Vitamin E has been added to the cereal as a preservative. Salt and sugar are added as flavor enhancers. Tripotassium Phosphate is used as a stabilizer and emulsifier.
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamins and minerals are added to the product including calcium carbonate, iron, zinc, vitamins A, B-6, B-12, C, D, riboflavin, thiamin, and folic acid. Cheerios provide at least 10 percent of the daily value of each of the added vitamins and minerals.
Member Comments