Nowadays, the term ‘cereal’ is generally used as a short form for describing readymade breakfast cereals. However, the technical meaning of the word is actually any kind of edible grain. Many of us often buy breakfast cereals online in Kolkata or purchase them from retail stores. While doing so, we generally get a wide range of options to choose from, such as oats, wheat, rice, corn, millet and quinoa. But very few amongst us are aware of the health benefits that consumption of these breakfast foods can provide. Given below are some of them, have a look:
The daily fiber requirement for average men and women is 38 grams and 25 grams respectively. Fibre helps in preventing constipation and also keeps the digestive tract healthy. It also controls cholesterol levels and blood sugar. Dietary fibres may even help in preventing some types of cancer. According to meticulous surveys, around 35 percent of our daily fiber needs is fulfilled by cereal grains.
Refined grains as well as whole-grain foods are the major providers of iron in a balanced diet. Cereals contain sufficient amount of most nutrients like magnesium, complex carbohydrates, selenium and also B vitamins like riboflavin, niacin and thiamine. Selenium serves as an antioxidant, B vitamins help with metabolism and in keeping the nervous system healthy and magnesium builds up the bones.
Although beneficial phytochemicals can be provided by plant-based foods, cereals contain distinct phytochemical profiles than vegetables and fruits. For instance, phytochemicals known as orthophenols are a common constituent of cereal grains, but rarely found in plant-based food items. They work like antioxidants and help in preventing certain types of cancer. Eating different types of cereals can also be very advantageous because each type possess its own composition of it.
Provides Energy
The human body requires energy constantly for performing a wide range of activities, such as respiration, digestion, cell regeneration, fighting sickness, repairing body tissues, excretion and even for sleeping. Most health and nutrition experts claim that cereals are the major sources of energy. They contribute about 30 percent of calories in a properly balanced diet. In India itself, cereals have been reported to fulfill around 70 to 80 percent of the total energy requirements.
Around 95 percent of the minerals in cereals are phosphates and sulphates of calcium, potassium and magnesium, the phosphorus content being known as phytin. As has been mentioned already, magnesium helps to build bones. Besides that, it also aids in detoxification, transportation of nerve impulses and energy production. Potassium enhances muscle strength, electrolytic functions and water balance, whereas calcium helps to maintain strong bones and ensures proper functioning of the heart, nerves and muscles.