If you come across a cereal box adorned with a cartoon character, it's best to avoid what's inside. Sugary breakfast cereals have been cleverly marketed to children for years, making it one of the most successful advertising campaigns of our time. Just show kids a cartoon tiger or bumblebee munching on something crispy, and voila! Childhood obesity skyrockets. Even if you're not swayed by cartoon characters or catchy jingles, the sweet taste and satisfying crunch can still appeal to your inner child.
When selecting a cold breakfast cereal, there are two key factors to consider: whole grains and fiber. Stay away from refined grains, as they won't keep you full and will likely leave you craving donuts once you're at work. Avoid cereals with added sugar – if you can actually see sugar crystals on the cereal, it's not a good sign. Opt for cereals that contain less than 5 grams of sugar per serving, and if sugar is listed as the primary ingredient, it's best to choose a different option. Additionally, try to avoid trans fats (also known as partially hydrogenated oils) and high-fructose corn syrup whenever possible. Remember, packaging is a form of advertising, so examine the nutrition label and ingredients for accurate information. You might be surprised by some seemingly healthy choices that are actually better off avoided.
Here are some cereals that fit the bill:
Raisin Bran
Shredded Wheat
Fiber One Bran Cereal
Kashi Heart to Heart Honey Toasted Oat Cereal
Fiber One Honey Clusters
Post Grape-Nuts Trail Mix Crunch Cereal
Quaker Oatmeal Squares
On the other hand, here are cereals you should steer clear of:
Cap'n Crunch
Cookie Crisp
Froot Loops
Frosted Flakes
Honey Bunches of Oats
Apple Jacks
Corn Pops
Rice Krispies
Chex (Rice/Corn)
Kix
Smacks
Special K
Crispix
Basic Four
Anything cocoa-flavored
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Remember, having a healthy breakfast isn't just about choosing the right cereal – it's also about portion control. Like with chocolate, red wine, and most other things, moderation is key. A typical serving size is one cup. Fill the rest of your bowl with fruits and nonfat milk for a healthier breakfast.
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