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Are you guilty of reaching for a cereal box marketed as “healthy” for breakfast? You’re not alone, but a new study conducted by GoCoCo, a cutting-edge nutrition app, has found that many of these so-called healthy cereals are not what they seem. The research analyzed over 500 breakfast cereals and isolated the 60 products marketed as healthy by supermarkets. Shockingly, 98% of these cereals were classified as ultra-processed, and 90% contained high sugar levels, averaging 22.5 grams per 100 grams. To make matters worse, these cereals often contain artificial coloring and flavoring, making them even more appealing to unsuspecting consumers.
But here’s the real kicker: these cereals perform worse in nutritional value than their sugary counterparts. Companies use clever marketing techniques, adding nuts, dried fruit, and whole grains to create a facade of health. However, they also add sugar and salt to enhance the taste, making them more appealing to consumers. Companies also add vitamins and minerals, despite these nutrients being easily obtained through natural, unprocessed sources like fruits and vegetables.
Thankfully, there are still healthy cereal options out there. Nature’s Path Organic Fruit Juice Corn Flakes Cereal and Alpen No Added Sugar Muesli Cereal are great options with minimal ingredients and little added sugar. However, if you want to try something different, there are plenty of healthy breakfast alternatives to cereal. One option for individuals seeking a healthy cereal substitute is oatmeal, a great breakfast choice due to its high protein and fiber content. In addition, bananas, blueberries, strawberries, chia seeds, matcha, or hemp heart powder can be added for flavor and nutrition. Other possible options include:
- Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a fantastic protein source and can keep you satisfied for a long time. For flavor, you can also add honey, nuts, or fruits.
- Smoothies: Smoothies are a fantastic method to include a variety of nutrients in a single meal. Make your smoothie with fruits, veggies, nuts, and seeds for a satisfying and healthy morning.
- Eggs: An excellent source of protein, eggs can keep you satisfied for a long time. They can be boiled, poached, or scrambled for a complete meal with whole-grain bread.
- Avocado Toast: Popular among morning foods, avocado toast is an excellent source of healthy fats. For more nutrients, you can add eggs, tomatoes, or salmon.
All these are great options that can provide a nutritious start to your day.
If you want help identifying healthy foods, apps like GoCoCo can be helpful. The app has a built-in scanner that analyzes food labels, providing users with information about the nutritional value and suggests more nutritious alternatives, if necessary. GoCoCo even offers personalized recommendations based on your goals, preferences, and lifestyle, making sticking to a healthy diet easier.
In conclusion, starting your day with a healthy breakfast is crucial, but don’t be fooled by the marketing hype surrounding “healthy” cereals. Instead, opt for genuinely nutritious options, and if you need help identifying them, turn to nutrition apps like GoCoCo to help guide you toward your healthy lifestyle goals. Remember, your diet’s overall nutritional quality matters, so make sure to prioritize healthy eating throughout the day.
