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Cheerios have been a breakfast staple in many households for decades. Recognized for their distinctive circular shape and mild flavor, they are primarily made from whole-grain oats and fortified with essential vitamins and minerals like iron. This simple yet wholesome ingredient list makes them a popular choice among health-conscious consumers seeking a nutritious start to their day.

But are Cheerios truly healthy? While Cheerios offer a nutritional profile that supports various aspects of health, including gut and heart health, there are also some drawbacks to consider. In this article, we’ll examine the benefits and potential downsides of including Cheerios in your diet. What are Cheerios?

Photo: Steve Cukrov / Shutterstock. Design: Eat This, Not That! Cheerios are a classic breakfast cereal that has been a staple on grocery store shelves since 1941. Made primarily from whole-grain oats, Cheerios stand out for using oat varieties that are heat- and drought-resistant and higher in beta-glucan. Beta-glucan is a type of fiber that research has shown to help reduce cholesterol levels, making Cheerios a valuable addition to your diet if you’re looking to lower your risk of heart disease.

Alongside whole-grain oats, Original Cheerios also contain corn starch, sugar, salt, and tripotassium phosphate. The cereal is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and B vitamins.

Cheerios come in many varieties, from the lightly sweetened Honey Nut Cheerios to Multi Grain Cheerios. In this article, we’ll focus on Original Cheerios made with whole-grain oats.

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Nutrition (Per 1 ½ cup serving):
Calories: 140
Fat: 2.5 g (Saturated Fat: 0.5 g) Sodium: 190 mg Carbs: 29 g (Fiber: 4 g, Sugar: 2 g [1 g added sugar]) Protein: 5 gCheerios also contain the following vitamins and minerals: Vitamin D (20% DV) Calcium (10% DV) Iron (70% DV) Potassium (6% DV) Vitamin A (10% DV) […]

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