Once upon a time, the laxative effects of a high fiber cereals were their only known benefit. Then came the news that high fiber cereals and other high fiber foods act to reduce blood cholesterol. Nowadays, with documented health benefits like slowing blood sugar absorption, promoting appetite control and providing fewer calories for the same size portion than most other foods, it seems like there's no end to the value of incorporating more fiber into your diet.
High fiber cereals are everywhere, but few understand what makes them high fiber foods or where that fiber comes from. Bran is the indigestible outer shell of a whole grain, which means that bran cereals do away with the starch and germ of a whole grain. As a result, they usually contain more fiber by weight than any of the other types of high fiber cereals. Whole grains, or cereals made from whole grain flour which has been baked and broken up into bite size pieces, come in next highest in terms of fiber. Whole grains include the bran as well as the rest of the grain. Granola is one popular version of whole grain cereal, with its European cousins kasha, made from buckwheat, and muesli, uncooked rolled oats, gaining in popularity among health conscious consumers.
The grocery store is full of options, but how can you tell the good from the bad? Look for the ones made from whole wheat bran or whole grains like oats and barley. The specific whole grain should be the first ingredient listed. People tend to think of high fiber cereals as being served in a bowl with cold milk. Another popular use is to add the high fiber cereal to yogurt. Don't forget the non-dairy options like granola and muesli, or hot cereals like oatmeal. Extra sugars aren't usually beneficial to anyone, so try to steer clear of over-sweetened options, whether you are looking at hot or cold high fiber cereals. Nuts and berries tend to add extra fiber and flavor to the best high fiber cereals; no need to fear these additives.
Industrious and inventive folks are constantly finding ways to repackage high fiber cereals. The general idea of using whole grains as the basis of a healthy breakfast does not change to any significant degree. Unlike the health benefits, which seem to be improving with every new research finding. If you neglect to include high fiber cereals in your diet, you should know that you are missing out on more than just great taste--you could be shortchanging your own healthy future.
