Breakfast cereal is quick and easy. Many cereal brands advertise health benefits on the package. They might mention whole grains or added vitamins. This makes people think the cereal is healthy. But many popular brands contain lots of sugar. Some have as much sugar as a donut. Here are seven cereals known for this issue.
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1. Honey Nut Cheerios
Original Cheerios are known for heart health benefits. Honey Nut Cheerios uses that good reputation, but it adds much more sugar. One cup has about 12 grams of sugar. Most of that is added sugar, not natural. It’s also much sweeter than plain Cheerios.
2. Kellogg’s Frosted Mini-Wheats
The box highlights whole grains and fiber. This makes Frosted Mini-Wheats seem healthy. But the sugary frosting adds up quickly. A serving has around 12 grams of sugar. That’s mostly added sugar coating the wheat. The fiber is good, but the sugar is high.
3. Kellogg’s Raisin Bran (and Crunch)
Raisin Bran sounds wholesome with wheat flakes and raisins. Raisins naturally contain sugar, but the cereal brand often adds extra sugar is often added too. This is especially true for Raisin Bran Crunch versions. One cup can have 19 grams of sugar or more.
4. Quaker Life Cereal
Life cereal is marketed as a wholesome family choice. It contains whole grain oat flour, but the original flavor has 8 grams of added sugar. Cinnamon Life usually contains even more sugar. It’s sweeter than it might appear at first glance.
5. Special K Cereals
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Special K often targets health-conscious adults. The original version has moderate added sugar. However, flavored versions like Red Berries add much more. These can have 10 to 12 grams of sugar and lack significant fiber.
6. Honey Bunches of Oats
This cereal highlights oats and honey in its name. It sounds like a natural, healthy option, but check the ingredient list for sugars. Varieties often contain 8 to 10 grams of added sugar. Sugar, honey, and corn syrup contribute to this amount.
7. Froot Loops / Apple Jacks / Corn Pops
These colorful cereals appeal strongly to kids. They often mention added vitamins on the box. This might create a false sense of health. But they are among the highest in sugar. Servings often contain 12 to 15 grams of added sugar.
Check the Nutrition Label
Cereal boxes often use health buzzwords. Look past these claims on the front. Read the Nutrition Facts panel on the side and check the grams of “Added Sugars” per serving. Aim for cereals with low added sugar, under 6 grams is best. Also, look for high fiber content. Choose cereal brands with at least 3 grams of fiber. Make sure whole grains are the first ingredient listed. Plain cereals are often the healthiest choice. Add your own fruit for natural sweetness.
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