5 Tips for Choosing Cereal

 

 

Who doesn't love a bowl of cereal in the morning?  Cereal is an easy, go to breakfast for the whole family.  Everyone has their favorite kind of cereal, but you want to make sure you're picking the healthiest option for you and your family.  Always check the food label!  There are plenty of healthy choices on the shelves at your grocery store.  Here are some things to look for:

1. Whole grains --  Look for cereals that are whole grain. Search for the word "whole" in the ingredient list.  If the package says "100% whole grain" then you know you're getting these healthy grains.  The label will also tell you how much fiber is in one serving of cereal.  Choose cereals that have 3 to 5 grams of fiber.  Whole grains and fiber help you feel full for longer.
2. Low sugar -- Choose cereals with little or no added sugar.  The goals should be a cereal with 8 grams of sugar or less.  Make sure to watch out for the cereals on the bottom shelf with colorful packaging and characters because these tend to have more sugar and are more appealing to children.
3. Low fat -- Most cereals are low in fat, but you look at the food label to ensure that the cereal that you are choosing is low in fat.  Choose a cereal that has less than 3 grams of fat and no trans-fat.  The options are endless!  Cereals that are low in fat are generally heart healthy too.
4. Low calorie -- Try to choose a cereal that has between 100 and 200 calories per serving.  Don't forget that having more than one serving increases the calories!  Always check to see what the serving size is.  Usually the serving size of a bowl of cereal is 3/4 to 1 cup.  Measuring your cereal to get the right portion size.
5. Store brand -- Instead of buying brand cereal try the generic store brand.  You can sometimes find these cereals on the same shelf.  These cereals are cheaper and have the same flavors and nutrition.

Don't forger the check the food label!  Cereals high in fiber, low in sugar, fat, and calories are the most nutritious cereals for you and your family.