I consider breakfast the most important meal of the day. It helps you lose weight, gives you energy, revs your metabolism and can prevent you from overeating later on. So even though we all don't have time for a relaxing breakfast in the morning (I get it, I'm a New Yorker) we can all simply enjoy some cereal. In a bowl or in a baggie (if you are short on time), it's an easy way to start your day and if you select the right brand (high in fiber, low in sugar) you'll be doing your heart, your waist and your overall health a favor!
My favorite picks include:
Kashi Go Lean or Heart to Heart
Barbara's Puffins (original or cinnamon flavors) or Ultima High Fiber
Fiber One (original)
Nature's Path Smart Bran or Flax Plus Multibran
Before you dig in make sure you 1) read the nutrition label for the serving size since all cereals are not created equal, and 2) break out your measuring cups, act responsibly and actually measure out one (or one and a half) servings.
Then, add some skim milk, a few nuts or 2 TBSP ground flax seed and maybe 1/2 cup of berries and in minutes you'll have a perfect (and balanced) morning meal. No time to sit down? Add a measured out portion of dry cereal to a Ziploc, throw in a few almonds or walnuts and a tablespoon of raisins and you're off to the races. Really short on time? Prepare 7 baggies on Sunday and grab one on your way out the door each morning. No more excuses. (Hint: bagged cereal with nuts makes a delicious snack on the go too).
What to look out for:
< 5 grams of fiber per serving
> 5 grams of sugar per serving
> 190 calories per serving
Now you are armed and ready! So forget that granola or bowl of Raisin Bran and start your morning off right (and light)!
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