A balanced diet should contain protein, vitamins, and fiber; properties and benefits of eating cereals.
There are several types of cereals, as well as many ways in which we can include them in our diet. Knowing the benefits of eating cereals and understanding how to add them to our diet is the first step to consuming them on a daily basis.
Table of Contents
Why eat cereal?
Vitamins, iron and potassium are some of the nutrients that eating cereals gives us. All of them fulfill different functions; for example, potassium helps prevent cramps, and vitamin E strengthens the immune system.
The cereal is the base of the food pyramid and is made up of the endosperm, which in turn contains the nucleus and the embryo. The first contemplates 75% of the weight of the grain and contains starch; while the second is rich in proteins and vitamins. The other part is the wrapper, the outer part that contains vitamin B1 and protein.
Wheat, corn, rye and barley are some of the cereals that you can incorporate into your regular diet. Read on and learn how.
Also read: 5 Myths About Food and Nutrition
What properties do cereals have?
Meats and vegetables are by far the most important part of a healthy diet, but that’s not to say there aren’t other sources to get the nutrients we need. The benefits of eating cereals for the well-being of the organism have been spread in different studies, and that is why today we will talk about the properties of the cereal:
Vitamins
Cereals are a great source of vitamins. According to the Puleva page, the covers are rich in vitamin B1, while the germ provides vitamin E.
Protein
Like meat, cereals are also a source of protein. The nucleus, the aleurone and the germ are the main sources of this nutrient. Consuming cereals is extremely important if we are looking for a balanced diet.
Fiber
The fiber is found in the covering of the whole grain cereal since refined cereal does not have a covering. If you want to know more about grinding cereals.
Also read: How to increase the consumption of healthy foods?
Benefits of consuming cereals daily
Now that we know its properties, let’s talk about the benefits of consuming cereals. If you want to know how to add cereals to your diet, you need to know some healthy vegetarian breakfast ideas. Among its main contributions to health we can mention:
Energy generation
As we already mentioned, cereals are a source of vitamin B1, which helps convert carbohydrates into energy that the body will then use to carry out different activities.
Strengthening of the immune system
The contribution of vitamin E by cereals helps the body to strengthen the immune system and deal with different viruses and bacteria. In addition, it helps to take better advantage of vitamin K and works as an anticoagulant.
Prevention of cancer and constipation
The incorporation of fiber, one of the typical properties of cereal, helps improve the functioning of the digestive system. Additionally, it prevents some types of cancer and reduces the risk of diabetes. Remember to eat whole grains with a good supply of fiber.
High level of satiety
Another benefit of cereals is satiety. You don’t need to consume large portions to feel satisfied. This is because the cereal provides fiber and complex carbohydrates. It is for this reason that a bowl of rice can easily fill us up.
Teeth care
Another benefit of consuming cereals is the care of the teeth. Its amount of fiber promotes the production of saliva, which helps to eliminate the bacterial plaque that forms on the teeth.
Prevention of anemia and cramps
The iron contained in cereals helps prevent anemia. For its part, potassium helps prevent muscle contraction or “cramps.”
Conclusion
Cereal is essential for a good diet since it is a source of nutrients that few foods offer. They not only help better digestion but also take care of teeth and prevent anemia. Remember that cereals are one of the main sources of energy and will help you carry out all your daily activities without wearing yourself out.