Cereal is convenient breakfast food for a great number of people. Mothers use it to feed kids before school and adults use it as a quick meal before work. It's even eaten as dinner or late night snacks. Cereal comes in many varieties and a multitude of brands. Finding a brand that is not loaded in sugar and unhealthy carbs is another story. One of the best types of cereal is bran. It's nutritious, tastes great and holds you over until lunch.
What is Bran?
Bran is the outer layer of cereal grains. This layer is not processed and is a byproduct of the grains. In the past, this byproduct was discarded. It wasn't until the last 40 years that it was discovered to have beneficial qualities. Here is a nutrition guide to all bran cereal and why it's a good choice for you.
Health Benefits
Bran is high in fiber and a good number of people use it for that benefit. It's also good for preventing heart problems, colon disorders and cancer. Fiber fills you up and keeps your body feeling fuller longer. Bran also has protein. Protein provides strength to muscles and helps them heal after tough workouts.
Nutrients of Bran
The nutrients of bran are outstanding. This is a list of nutrients you'll find on bran cereal box labels:
- Calcium
- Folic Acid
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Niacin (Vitamin B3)
- Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5)
- Phosphorus
- Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
- Thiamine
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B12
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
- Zinc
Many of the brands have 100% of the daily recommended vitamins and minerals needed. Read each nutrition label carefully to make the best cereal choice.
A Sensible Snack
Bran cereal makes a smart choice as a snack because it's low in fat and calories. Avoid high sugar snacks that fill you up for a short period of time and bring your energy levels down afterward. Most of the vitamins in bran keep you energized and ready to complete your day.
Great for Diets
There are many cereal brands on the market that encourage weight loss and proper dieting. Bran helps you do this in a healthy and natural way. Instead of eating a big lunch, try a bowl of cereal with low fat milk and yogurt. The fiber keeps you full until dinner. Many brands add raisins or nuts for flavor. The extra items are good because they add more necessary nutrients to your diet. Feel free to add your own fruit or a slight dribble of honey for more flavor.
Increase Your Metabolism
A healthy metabolism speeds up weight loss. Bran provides all the essential vitamins for a fast metabolism. Vitamins B2, B3, B5, B6 and C all contribute to a healthier metabolic rate. Without these important vitamins, the thyroid would not work properly, kidney function would be down, and energy levels would crash.
Bran cereal is starting to catch on as a better way to enjoy breakfast. Well-known brands are replacing the traditional cereals with high-fiber bran choices. There are 100% organic choices as well. All bran cereal is healthy for you and your family. Eating healthier begins at home.
