Cereal is either made from corn, wheat, rice, bran or oats. Most cereals are enriched with vitamins and minerals, which help to increase nutrients and decrease hunger throughout the day. Many cereals contain B vitamins, iron, calcium, protein and carbohydrates; these vitamins and minerals have many health benefits, which include regulating blood pressure, increasing memory, boosting energy and maintaining healthy bones.
Fiber
An ideal cereal is one that is high in fiber. Most cereals that contain whole grains, bran, oats and wheat have a high fiber content. According to MayoClinic.com, foods such as whole grains that are high in dietary fiber helps regulate the digestive system, lower blood cholesterol, control blood sugar and aid in weight loss. Although cold and warm cereals both rival with each other when it comes to nutrition, it is recommended to eat a warm cereal that contains brown rice, wheat berries, oats or barley.
Iron
Iron is an important mineral for the human body, and it is essential for life. Iron is mainly found in the red blood cells, where it carries oxygen to every cell in the body, according to University of Maryland Medical Center. People who have a low iron count may develop a condition called iron deficiency anemia, which may lead to extreme weakness and fatigue. Cereal with high iron counts, such as Cream of Wheat or Total, will help to prevent and combat this condition. Many cereals are enriched with vitamins and minerals, so many cold cereals also contain high iron counts.
B-complex Vitamins
B-complex vitamins, including B1, or thiamine; B2, or riboflavin; B3, or niacin; B6, or pyridoxine; B9, or folic acid; B12, or cyanocobalamin; pantothenic acid and biotin are included in most breakfast cereals. These vitamins are naturally occurring in whole grain cereals, and they are included in many enriched cereals. B-complex vitamins are essential to human health and play a role in the proper health and development of hair, skin, nails and metabolism. B-complex vitamins are also used to increase energy and regulate hormone production.
Protein
According to CNN, most breakfast cereals contain at least 1 to 10 g of protein per 1 cup serving. Proteins are used in the cells, tissues, organs and muscles. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends having 46 g of protein per day for women ages 19 to above and 56 g of protein per day for men ages 19 and above. Adding 1 cup of milk to your cereal will add an extra 8 g of protein to your breakfast.
Considerations
If you have diabetes or any other condition in which you have to watch your carbohydrate or sugar intake, choose a cereal that is low in sugar and has a low glycemic index number. You can find this information under the nutrition facts label on the cereal box.
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