The 18 Healthiest Cereals You Can Eat

Medically Reviewed on 8/2/2022
The 18 Healthiest Cereals You Can Eat
Here are 18 of the healthiest cereals you can buy at the grocery store

Cereal is a common breakfast staple, one that is both convenient and filling. However, many breakfast cereals contain added sugars and lack important nutrients. 

When it comes to healthy cereal, look for those that have whole grains as one of the first ingredients. Whole grains are rich in fiber and protein, which can help lower the risk of diseases such as diabetes and cancer.

Here are 18 of the healthiest cereals you can buy at the grocery store.

18 healthy cereals

1. Kashi GoLean

Kashi GoLean is made with whole grains and soy flakes, making it high in protein and fiber. Protein is an essential building block for the body, and fiber promotes digestion. Both will keep you feeling full for longer. This cereal comes in chocolate, peanut butter, berry, and many other flavors.

2. Grape-Nuts

Grape-Nuts are one of the most nutrient-dense cereals available. This cereal is made of only four ingredients:

  • Whole-grain wheat flour
  • Malt barley flour
  • Salt
  • Dry yeast

There are no added sugars or flavors, and the cereal is high in fiber and minerals such as iron and magnesium.

3. Nature's Path Organic

Nature's Path is a cereal brand that offers a wide range of healthful cereal options. They offer gluten-free varieties, as well as cereals with flax and chia seeds, making it easy to pick a cereal that suits your lifestyle and health goals. Nature's Path is available in a variety of flavors, including crispy vanilla and coconut.

4. Ezekial 4:9 Sprouted Whole Grain Cereal

Ezekial 4:9 is high in fiber and protein. Ezekial 4:9 is noted for using clean, wholesome foods that are free of artificial flavors and chemicals.

5. Barbara's Original Puffins

This cereal is a good breakfast option because it is dairy- and wheat-free, lightly sweetened, and high in fiber.

6. Bob's Red Mill Crunchy Coconut Granola

Bob's Red Mill Crunchy Coconut Granola has a blend of rich flavors including molasses, coconut, sesame seeds, and vanilla. It is also nourishing and rich in healthy fats due to the coconut.

7. Cascadian Farms Hearty Morning

This cereal has 8 grams of fiber per serving, which can help keep you satiated the entire morning. To enhance the flavor, top with your favorite fruit or nuts.

8. Erewhon Raisin Bran

Erewhon Raisin Bran is made with only 5 ingredients including raisins that lend just the perfect amount of sweetness. The bran has 6 grams of fiber and 5 grams of protein per serving.

9. Smart Bran

Smart Bran has 17 grams of fiber per serving and 4 grams of protein per tablespoon. If you want to add additional protein and fat, top it with some fresh fruit and a spoon full of Greek yogurt.

10. Organic Old-Fashioned Oatmeal

This is a one-ingredient cereal, consisting solely of organic whole grain rolled oats, which is all you need for a filling meal high in fiber (3 grams per ? cup serving) and protein. To enhance the flavor, add a dash of ground cinnamon, fresh fruit, or a spoonful of nut butter.

11. Healthy Grains Granola Clusters

In this cereal, flaxseed is the star ingredient. Flaxseed is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which aid in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. You can eat this crunchy granola on its own or with yogurt or low-fat milk.

12. Whole Grain Puffs

This fiber-rich, protein-packed whole grain blend contains no added sugar. Whole grains in the ingredient list include wheat, brown rice, oats, barley, and rye. This puffy and crispy cereal can also be used to make rice crispy treats.

13. Organic Heritage Flakes Cereal

This cereal is made of robust whole grains, including spelt, barley, and millet in addition to whole wheat. It has a crispy, flaky texture and is high in fiber and protein.

14. Magic Spoon Frosted Cereal

Magic Spoon Frosted Cereal is a grain-free, high-protein cereal. One cup of the frosted variety has 13 grams of protein, 4 grams of total carbohydrates, and 0 grams of sugar.

15. Alpen No Sugar Added Muesli

This is a naturally sweet, crunchy cereal made with rolled oats, whole grain wheat flakes, hazelnuts, almonds, and raisins. It has 8 grams of protein per serving and no added sugars. 

16. Three Wishes Honey Grain-Free Cereal

If you have gluten sensitivity, this cereal option is an excellent option because it is gluten-free, and made with chickpea flour, pea protein, and tapioca. It has 8 grams of protein per serving, as well as 3 grams of sugar per serving.

17. Kellogg’s Special K Protein

Special K Protein is a good source of whole grains and has 15 grams of protein per serving. However, it also contains 8 grams of sugar per serving, meaning it may not be a healthy option if you are trying to limit your sugar intake.

18. Cheerios

Cheerios have a lower sugar content compared to other cereals and are believed to help lower cholesterol. Cheerios come in a variety of flavors, including honey nut, berry, and chocolate.

How to keep it healthy

In addition to selecting a healthy cereal, it is important to be mindful of the base and toppings you use.

If you want to use milk or yogurt as your base, choose a low-fat or fat-free option that is rich in protein, calcium, and other important minerals that support bone health. 

You can also boost the nutrient content of your breakfast by adding fruit to your cereal such as banana slices or berries. This will help you increase your intake of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

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Medically Reviewed on 8/2/2022
References
Image Source: iStock image

Shopping for Health: Breakfast Cereals. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FS274

How to Pick a Healthy Cereal. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-pick-a-healthy-cereal/