When people think of healthy breakfast cereal, they often think of cornflakes and milk. Cornflakes are usually associated with health. However, they are not as healthy as assumed.
Are Corn Flakes Healthy or Fattening?
The base ingredient of cornflakes is corn. Sugar, malt flavouring, and high fructose corn syrup are the other major ingredients, most of which have a high Glycemic Index (GI), a measure of how quickly a particular food causes blood sugar to spike.
Indians already have the ‘belly gene’, and are prone to diabetes. Hence, consumption of high GI carbohydrates only increases that risk.
Calories And Nutrition in Corn Flakes
A cup of cornflakes (25gm) has low protein and fat content but more carbohydrates and sugar. The sugar content would promote fat storage within the body and the low protein content would not keep someone full for a long time.
The weight loss advocated in most ads is only possible if a limited quantity of cornflakes is consumed.
Can Cornflakes Make You Gain Weight?
Corn flakes contain sugar in the form of fructose corn syrup which has a high GI of 82. Additionally, most people add sugar or honey along with milk, which only increases the sugar content of the cereal and puts you at a higher risk of gaining weight.
Scientifically Speaking: The American Heart Association (AHA) has said that added sugars “contribute zero nutrients” and are just empty calories “that can lead to extra kilos, or even obesity, thereby reducing heart health.”
Can Corn Flakes Promote Diabetes?
The high glycemic index of corn flakes produces high blood glucose levels which increase the insulin demand, contributing to a high risk of type 2 diabetes.
Healthy Alternatives For Cornflakes
It is recommended that you switch over to wheat flakes or oatmeal. You can improve the nutrient quality of your breakfast cereal with some low-fat milk, by adding fruits like berries, apples, or bananas, along with some nuts for protein, healthy fats, and fibre.
This way you can enjoy a delicious breakfast cereal without compromising on your health.
Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.