How to Eat Cereal in a Healthy Way

Almost half the population in the US lives on cereal. Eating it is one of the ways of having a healthy breakfast. You just have to tear open a bag and dunk the contents in a bowl filled with milk.

It is important to kick-start your day with a heavy and healthy breakfast and nothing fits the criteria better than cereal. And, to get your daily dose of nutrients, you need to spread out the amount of fiber, sugar, and protein you consume in a day. Consuming cereal not only helps you get the required nutrients easily but also lets you stay energetic during the most important hours of the day. Talking about energy, here are some natural ways to boost your energy levels. 

How Did People Start Eating Cereal?

In 1863, the very first cereal was made out of graham flour dough by James Caleb Jackson. The flour was dried and then broken down, which became too hard. Eventually, Jackson had to soak the product in milk overnight to make it soft! He started calling the product “granula.” 

Over the years, this tasty, crunchy item underwent several variations, and people started liking it. Since it did not take a lot of effort to get them ready for breakfast, people found it simple but wholesome. 

Different Types of Cereal

Cereal can be made out of oats, wheat, rice, barley, rye, corn, or quinoa. There are also other types available on the market. Because of this wide variety, people can choose what pleases their taste buds and have a scrumptious breakfast. If you are currently trying to lose weight, here are 5 vital breakfast rules for weight loss. 

In some grains, you will find a mixture of two or three different types of ingredients. Also, nothing is stopping you from buying different types, and mixing them yourself to have your customized version!

Rules for Eating Cereal

Rule 1: Eat Fiber for Bowel Health

Try to buy cereal that has higher fiber content. Your daily dose of fiber should not exceed 30 grams. But make sure you get at least 5 grams of fiber to kick start your day. Fiber works wonders for your bowel movements, thereby preventing constipation. Now, you might be interested in taking a look at the surprising signs of constipation.

Diabetics need a lot of fiber to keep them healthy. So, they can have breakfast cereal. However, they must keep a check on the amount of sugar present in it. For best results, they must consult their doctor or healthcare provider before they start adding any new item to their diets.

Rule 2: Get the Required Amount of Protein 

Buy cereal that contains natural protein, and not the ones that contain added protein supplements. Natural protein can be found in whole grains, seeds, and nuts. Adding milk will get you an additional 5 to 6 grams of protein to your morning meal.

Rule 3: Have Limited Sugar

Too much sugar is bad for the body. But we can limit the consumption and not cut it out completely. Everything in moderation is good.

Some breakfast items contain too much sugar and should be avoided. Instead, opt for the ones where you get your sugars from natural sources like dry fruits, such as raisins. Read to know if raisins are good for diabetics.

Can You Eat Cereal at Any Time?

Yes, it can be enjoyed at any time of the day! While traditionally associated with breakfast, cereal can be a versatile food option that can be enjoyed as a snack or even as a meal at other times. Whether you prefer it with milk, yogurt, or eaten dry as a crunchy snack, cereal offers a convenient and customizable option for a quick and easy meal or snack. With a wide variety of flavors, textures, and nutritional profiles available, it can be a delicious and satisfying choice for any time of the day. Just be mindful of your personal dietary needs and preferences while shopping at the grocery store.

What Can You Add to Your Cereal?

You can add a whole lot of things, apart from milk. But avoid mixing all of them together at the same time! One day, you can try mixing fruits, such as raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, bananas, apples, and pineapples. The next day, opt for dry fruits and nuts. While at it, take a glance at the 7 amazing benefits of walnuts.

You can even have a mix of dry fruits or canned fruits with nuts. Some love to include chia, sunflower, or pumpkin seeds in their breakfast. 

The bottom line is to make your breakfast (or snack) more nutritious and tastier by topping it off with something delicious! 

Can Kids Eat Cereal?

It’s okay to give your kids cereal now and then. However, many kids get addicted to it, which is unhealthy. Remember the following points about offering this breakfast item to children:

• Don’t use it as a “quick fix” for breakfast. 
• Look at the ingredients in the pack you buy from the grocery store. Usually, the first 3 ingredients will let you know the main contents of the box.
• Avoid giving it every day to your kid.
• Instead of giving the same type of breakfast, choose options like muesli or overnight oats.
• Monitor the portion size your kid is consuming. Some tend to double or triple the normal amount that can be taken daily.
• Allow your kid to choose toppings that are both tasty and healthy.

If you follow the above suggestions to the “T,” your kids will cultivate the habit of eating a healthy breakfast all the time. Talking about kids’ habits, read how to raise happy kids.

Moderation is Key

“Moderation” is crucial in all aspects of life, even while eating cereal. As stated earlier, you can have it once in a while, but not very often. If you don’t have the habit of eating it but wish to try it anew, consult your dietician or doctor for suggestions. All cereals are not good/bad. So, choose wisely and stay healthy!