Hawkesbury residents who have ready-to-eat breakfast cereals, oats and muesli for breakfast may have a 12 per cent lower risk of being overweight or obese according to a literature review published in Advances in Nutrition last week.
The review revealed that people who ate breakfast cereals were more likely to have healthier diets and weigh less than non-consumers of breakfast cereals.
Hawkesbury District Health Service dietician, Caroline Cahill, said most cereals can contribute to a nutritious diet high in vitamins, minerals and calcium.
‘‘There’s a greater likelihood that by eating cereal you will meet the recommended nutrient intakes which will assist in achieving a healthier and slimmer body as well as improved memory and concentration,’’ Ms Cahill said.
‘‘It combines protein, fibre and calcium all in one which can help stabilise the digestive system and fasten the metabolism. Cereals high in fibre take longer to digest which creates a feeling of fullness and prevents snacking more throughout the day.’’
Although these findings are reliable, Ms Cahill said it was important people read the labels before buying cereal because many are high in sugar and fat.
Report author, Professor Peter Williams, said regularly eating breakfast cereal can result in higher energy levels throughout the day which comes from the carbohydrates, vitamins, total sugars and fibre.
According to the Australian Dietary Guidelines, adults aged 19 to 70 are recommended to eat four to six serves of grain or cereal foods a day for good health.
Alternative breakfast options: Aim for a breakfast that combines good carbs and fibre with some protein such as porridge, wholegrain toast with avocado, cheese or cold meats, eggs, baked beans, yoghurt, fruit, nuts or wheat biscuits.