5 heart-friendly breakfast cereals to try
What's the story
Managing cholesterol levels is imperative for keeping your heart healthy, and breakfast cereals can be of great help in it. Picking the right cereal can not only help cut down on bad cholesterol but also provide essential nutrients. Here are a few heart-healthy breakfast cereals that are good for your cholesterol levels. Let's take a look at their nutritional benefits and how they help.
Fiber-rich
Oats: A classic choice
Another common choice to keep cholesterol in check is oats. Oats are rich in soluble fiber which reduces low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (bad cholesterol). Regular consumption of oats can help bring down LDL levels by 5%. They are also quite versatile and can be eaten with fruits or nuts for a flavor and nutrition boost.
Whole grains
Whole grain cereals: A nutritious option
Whole grain cereals are an excellent option for heart health as they contain all parts of the grain- bran, germ, and endosperm. These components offer essential nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals that promote cardiovascular health. Studies indicate that eating whole grains daily may reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 30%. Look for cereals labeled as 100% whole grain.
Bran benefits
Bran flakes: High in fiber
Bran flakes are loaded with dietary fiber, which helps reduce cholesterol levels by binding bile acids in the intestine. This compels the body to utilize more cholesterol to synthesize new bile acids, thereby lowering overall blood cholesterol levels. A serving of bran flakes usually offers about seven grams of fiber per cup, which makes it an excellent option for those looking to boost heart health.
Quinoa power
Quinoa-based cereals: Protein-packed alternative
Quinoa-based cereals provide a protein-rich alternative without losing out on benefits of controlling cholesterol levels. Quinoa is packed with all nine essential amino acids and is also rich in antioxidants, which protect against oxidative stress associated with heart disease. Including quinoa in your breakfast routine can deliver both protein and fiber required for maintaining healthy blood lipid profiles.
Nutty add-ons
Nuts and seeds additions: Boosting nutritional value
Adding nuts and seeds such as almonds or flaxseeds to your cereal not only makes it delicious but also increases its nutritional value by a whole lot. Nuts have healthy fats called monounsaturated fats, which lower LDL cholesterol when consumed regularly as part of a balanced diet plan. This plan improves cardiovascular wellness without compromising taste preferences/dietary restrictions, vegetarianism or veganism alike.