Whole grain cereals for overall wellness

MANILA, Philippines - Whole grains, as defined by the American Association of Cereal Chemists International and the US FDA, consist of the “intact, ground, cracked or flaked fruit of the grain the principal components of which — the starchy endosperm, germ, and bran — are present in the same relative proportions as they exist in the intact grain.” A grain is considered whole if all three parts — bran, germ, and endosperm — are present.

Health-conscious individuals will be very happy to know the essential benefits of whole grain consumption. For instance, whole grains are good sources of antioxidants. Whole grains also contain some B vitamins, magnesium, iron, and fiber.

Most people tend to focus on regular bowel movement as a benefit of whole grain consumption. However, research also shows that it may help in reducing cancer risk, lowering risk of cardiovascular disease, managing diabetes, and in weight management.

The Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos stresses the importance of eating more whole grains instead of refined grains like rice, which tend to promote a spike in glucose levels followed by a drop in energy and concentration. To be more enlightened, whole grains can be found in the following: ready-to-eat cereal (28.7%), yeast breads (25.3%), hot cereals (13.7%), popcorn (12.4%) and crackers (6.4%). The most common types of whole grains are corn, oats, and barley.

Nestle Philippines also helps provide easy access to health and wellness with breakfast cereals made with whole grains.  For busy moms who prefer quick-to-prepare meals for their kids before they go to school, there’s Nestle Koko Krunch with whole grains that will make breakfast healthy and fun for them. Nestle Fitnesse, in turn, helps adults get into shape with its whole grain ingredients. 

Nestle Koko Krunch and Nestle Fitnesse are available in leading groceries and supermarkets nationwide.