Cream of Wheat is a warm breakfast cereal that originated in North Dakota in the late 1800s and quickly gained popularity all over the United States. This breakfast cereal is made from ground wheat and farina. It is prepared by adding it to hot water or milk and boiling it until it resembles porridge. Most of the shelved Cream of Wheat has been fortified with many vitamins and minerals in addition to the nutrients it already carries naturally.
Low-Fat Breakfast Cereal
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1 cup of regular Cream of Wheat contains only 0.1 g saturated fat and 1 g of total fat. This makes Cream of Wheat a healthy choice for people who need to watch their saturated fat intake such as those with high cholesterol, high blood pressure or those at risk for heart disease.
Helps Prevent Anemia
One serving size of Cream of Wheat contains 45 percent of the recommended daily value of iron, according to B&G Foods, Inc. This is an especially good food choice for people who suffer from iron deficiency anemia or those who want to prevent it. Iron deficiency anemia is a condition that arises from insufficient iron stores; it normally arises from blood loss, not eating enough iron and pregnancy. Eating a diet rich in iron will help prevent iron deficiency anemia.
Increase Calcium Intake
One serving of Cream of Wheat with fat-free milk contains 40 percent of the daily recommended value of calcium. Calcium is mainly used in the teeth and bones to support them and harden them. Calcium is also needed to contract muscles and blood vessels as well as transmitting impulses through the nervous system. People with conditions such as osteoporosis and menopause require a higher calcium demand. Eating Cream of Wheat is a good choice to incorporate into breakfast along with fat-free milk to increase your daily calcium intake.
Riboflavin Benefits
Riboflavin, or vitamin B2, helps the body to convert food into glucose, which then becomes energy. B-complex vitamins are also vital for healthy hair, skin and nails. B2 is also an antioxidant that helps to fight free radicals that cause cellular damage and increase the risk of cancers. One serving of Cream of Wheat with fat-free milk contains 35 percent of the daily requirement for riboflavin.
Avoid Additives
Cream of Wheat contains essential vitamins and minerals, which are beneficial to the health, but take care not to lower these benefits by adding bad fats such as full-fat milk or butter. Try instead to use low-fat or skim milk and vegetable spread.
Member Comments