Most of our early mornings are rushed and chaotic. Trying to multitask between getting into our pants, managing the misbehaving mess that we fondly call our hair, and remembering to feed the cats; the last thing we have time for is preparing a healthy breakfast.

So, what do you do? Grab a bowl, pour in some of your favorite cereal, splash in milk, and voila; breakfast is served. Cereal is a godsend, here to make breakfast quick, easy, and convenient for all age groups. Plus, they’re delicious! What more could a breakfast lover on a tight schedule want right?

Well, we, unfortunately, have some bad news. While it may be a breakfast favorite for a lot of us, most cereals aren’t too nutritious. They’re low in protein, lack fiber, and also contain a ton of added sugar which can have severe adverse effects on our health. (Hint – marshmallows for breakfast may taste delicious, but can you see them being too good for us? Of course not.)

This high amount of added sugar is closely linked to heart diseases, chronic illnesses, and even obesity. Sounds dreadful, right? Don’t worry though; you won’t need to deprive yourself of this beloved goodness completely. We have a little secret to save your day. Well… your morning at least.

Here are 8 of the best healthy cereal options for a healthy and delicious breakfast.

Cascadian Farm Purely O’s

Nutrition Facts – Per 1 cup serving: 96 cal, 1.2 g fat, 160mg sodium,20 g carb, 2.4g fiber,0.8 g added sugar, 2.4g protein.

Very close to an old-school favorite that we all grew up with (yes, we’re looking at you Cheerios), the Cascadian Farm version is made of purely organic ingredients that come together to offer a similar tasting, yet healthier, option for your breakfast. Even a huge serving (1 ½ cups) of the Purely O’s contains just one gram of sugar. So, you can have them for breakfast and perhaps again at night for some late snacking – we don’t judge.

Post Great Grains Cereal: Crunchy Pecan

Nutrition Facts – Per ¾ cup serving: 210 cal, 5 g fat, 160mg sodium, 39g carb, 5g fiber, 5g added sugar, 5g protein.

Rich in dietary fiber and protein, this box of a great healthy breakfast comes with crispy flakes that are mixed in with crunchy clusters, all made of high-quality ingredients. Early morning of yummy grains topped with scoopfuls of whole pecans not only makes this cereal delightful but also adds in an extra boost for your circulation.

Barbara’s Shredded Wheat Cereal

Nutrition Facts – Per 2-biscuit serving: 140cal, 1g fat,41 g carb, 5g fiber, 4g protein.

Made purely of whole grain shredded wheat, this is one of the best healthy cereal options available in the market due to being completely sugar-free. Certified by Whole Grains Council, Barbara’s shredded wheat has a high whole grain and fiber content.

Oxford research shows regular intake is closely associated with a lowered risk of diabetes, obesity, and even certain types of cancer.

Three Wishes Grain-Free Unsweetened Cereal

Nutrition Facts – Per 1 cup serving: 110cal, 2g fat, 100mg sodium, 15g carb, 3g fiber, 8g protein.

Another sugar-free delight, this one is for people who prefer to go grain-free in the morning. Instead, it contains four basic, top-quality ingredients; chickpeas, salt, pea protein, and tapioca. Thus, this makes it a great alternative cereal for people trying out the vegan diet too.

It is gluten-free, has no allergens, and the high protein content helps regulate appetite and promote weight loss.

HighKey Protein Cereal

Nutrition Facts – Per 1 cup serving: 90 cal, 5g fat, 25mg sodium, 11g carb, 3g fiber, 0g added sugar, 10g protein.

Often considered the best keto-friendly option out there, this flavor-filled cereal by HighKey is grain and gluten-free. It comes in four delectable flavors including fruity, cinnamon, frosted, and cocoa – catering to all of our taste buds.

The best part is that they use natural sweeteners like allulose syrup and fruit extracts – none of that ghastly artificial, added sugar here!

Kashi 7 Whole Grain Puffs

Nutrition Facts – Per 1 cup serving: 64cal, 0.4 g fat, 1.7mg sodium, 15g carb, 1.5g fiber, 0.2g added sugar, 2.5g protein.

This high grain and protein combination makes these puffs one of the best healthy cereals for diabetics. The only ingredients are a balanced blend of rye, red wheat, barley, oats, buckwheat, triticale, and brown rice paired with some sesame for extra texture.

Although incredibly nutritious, we have to admit these lack some flavor which can easily be made up for by adding in milk or pairing it with another cereal on this list.

KIND Almond Butter Whole Grain Clusters

Nutrition Facts – Per 1 cup serving: 240cal, 6g fat, 135mg sodium, 38g carb, 4g fiber,7g added sugar,10 g protein.

Do you love the wholesome taste of nut butter paired with the aroma of cinnamon as much as us? Well, you’re in for a treat.

Who says healthy cereal options don’t taste good, this KIND of granola (see what we did there?) is here to prove you wrong. Full of almond butter incorporated into cinnamon-flavored clusters, not only is this mouthwatering but also diet-friendly; packing a high protein content.

Seven Sundays Wild & Free Blueberry Chia Muesli

Nutrition Facts – Per 1 cup serving: 240cal, 6g fat, 5mg sodium, 40g carb, 6g fiber,7g added sugar,3 g protein.

Not a fan of the hard, grainy texture of muesli? Seven Sundays are here to change your mind about it.

This combination of tasty muesli paired with unconventional grains like sorghum and topped with chia seeds are high in fiber, proteins, and flavor. Not only is it great as a breakfast cereal, but you’ll also find yourself reaching for this purple bag during snack time.

Also, it is mostly sweetened with honey and fruits – talk about a big win.

In Conclusion

The common misconception that healthy-eating requires you to stuff boring, cardboard-like food into your mouth couldn’t be far from the truth. There are always some highly nutritious variants available that also taste amazing. To find out other healthier versions of your favorite foods, visit our website!

Enjoy your clean eating!