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Opting for cereal as a dinner choice can often seem like a convenient solution to quell evening hunger after a hectic day. However, this move may prompt concerns about the nutritional adequacy of such a meal. For instance, indulging in sugary cereals like Fruity Pebbles or Lucky Charms can make one question their overall health benefits.
Fortunately, experts suggest that cereal isn’t necessarily devoid of nutritional value. According to Jasmine Hormati, MS, RD, a certified intuitive eating counselor and founder of Mendinground Nutrition, cereals are often fortified with a variety of vitamins and minerals. “Depending on the type you choose,” she notes, “some can offer a substantial amount of fiber as well.”
This re-evaluates common assumptions about cereals. However, the question remains: Is relying on cereal for dinner a wise decision? To address this, we examined various perspectives.
The foremost consideration is that consuming cereal is certainly preferable to skipping a meal entirely. If faced with the choice between having nothing or enjoying a bowl of Trix, Hormati firmly advocates for choosing the Trix. After a long and exhausting day, preparing a full dinner can feel overwhelming; therefore, having a box of Raisin Bran or Rice Krispies on hand serves as a practical solution. As Hormati explains, cereal represents a straightforward meal option, requiring minimal effort in cooking and cleanup. Additionally, it’s affordable and easy to store, making it a reliable pantry staple.
Moreover, as previously mentioned, cereal can surprisingly provide nutritional benefits. Even those often deemed unhealthy, like Cocoa Puffs and Cinnamon Toast Crunch, can offer valuable nutrients. For example, these cereals are frequently fortified with B vitamins, including folic acid, as noted by Emily Van Eck, MS, RDN, a dietitian nutritionist based in Austin. B vitamins are essential for numerous bodily functions, including the formation of red blood cells and the conversion of food into energy.
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the potential downsides associated with breakfast cereals. Many options are ultraprocessed, undergoing significant manipulation before reaching consumers. While this processing does not inherently render them unhealthy, it often results in higher sugar content, which is linked to various health concerns. Excessive added sugar intake is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease, prompting the CDC to recommend that no more than 10% of daily caloric intake come from added sugars.
Unfortunately, a significant portion of breakfast cereals contains relatively high levels of sugar. An analysis published in Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention in Canada revealed that only 7% of 262 breakfast cereals examined were sugar-free, while nearly half contained multiple types of sugar. Additionally, many cereals, particularly those crafted from white flour and refined grains, lack a balanced mix of macronutrients—carbohydrates, protein, and fats. They typically spike in simple carbohydrates but fall short on protein, fiber, and other critical nutrients.
Source
www.self.com