Breakfast cereals are a convenient and quick snack option, but can they really be part of a healthy diet? Nutritionist Dori told UNN reporters about this, explaining what to look for when choosing granola, muesli, and cereals.
According to the expert, cereal products are not necessarily harmful. It all depends on the composition. If muesli or cereal has a short ingredient list, does not contain added sugar, but has nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, they can be a nutritious part of the diet.
However, sweet granola with chocolate or caramel also has a right to exist - as a source of energy and pleasure. It is important that the choice is conscious and meets the body's needs.
How to choose a dry breakfast:
The nutritionist advises paying attention to:
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sugar content - the lower the better;
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type of oil - ideally, if it is coconut or olive;
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the list of ingredients - the shorter the better;
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The protein and fiber content add satiety and benefits.
At the same time, the expert emphasizes: even "chocolate" granola is not bad, the main thing is to know the measure and choose it taking into account your own needs.
“Fitness” cereals are often marketing
Dori warns: the labels on the packages do not always correspond to reality. A package labeled “fitness” may contain ordinary sweet cereals. Therefore, the key is to read the composition, and not trust the slogans.
Can I eat breakfast cereals every day?
Yes, the nutritionist answers, if you alternate the types. For example: one day - muesli with kefir, the second - granola with yogurt, the third - oatmeal with fruit. Nutrition should be varied and bring pleasure.
Who should be careful?
People with sensitive digestion or severe glucose fluctuations should combine breakfast cereals with proteins - yogurt, kefir, nuts.
Also, dry breakfasts are acceptable for children from 2–3 years old, but in moderate quantities and without excessive sweets.
How to make a snack nutritious?
The nutritionist recommends adding the following to your dry breakfast:
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protein (yogurt, kefir);
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fiber (seeds, berries);
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healthy fats (nuts, tahini).
This will help make the snack not only tasty, but also nutritious.
