WHAT DIFFERENCES AND BENEFITS FOR HEALTH DO CORN FLAKES HAVE?

In the modern world, time is a precious commodity and people often have very little time to prepare and eat breakfast. Corn flakes have become a popular breakfast cereal over the years due to their convenience and easy-to-prepare nature. This cereal is made by toasting the flakes of corn and is not only a delicious meal but also a nutritious one. In this article, we will discuss the nutritional value of corn flakes, their benefits, the most common types of flaked cereals, the best flakes in India, and who should avoid having corn flakes.

Corn Flakes: Nutritional ValueCorn flakes are a ready-to-eat cereal that is convenient and nutritious. One cup (25g) of corn flakes contains about 89 calories, 21g of carbohydrates, and 182mg of sodium. This cereal is rich in folic acid (folate or vitamin B9), which is essential for the synthesis of blood cells.Benefits of Corn FlakesCorn flakes have many benefits, making them a popular breakfast option. Some of the benefits of corn flakes include:

1. Weight Loss: Including the right foods in your daily diet is crucial when it comes to weight loss. Corn flakes are one such food that is not only easy and quick to prepare and eat, it can also help you lose some extra pounds. However, controlling your portion size is necessary to control your calorie intake.
2. Heart Health: Corn flakes are low in fat and help lower the total cholesterol levels in your body. High cholesterol levels increase the risk of developing heart diseases. Therefore, corn flakes are a better option than other fatty foods when it comes to your heart health.
3. Lung Health: Corn is known to contain a carotenoid called beta-cryptoxanthin. This compound has powerful antioxidant properties that benefit your overall health. The antioxidant content in corn flakes may help enhance the functioning of your lungs.
4. Other Benefits: Corn flakes are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, protein, carbohydrates, dietary fibre, and folate. Folate is the most important mineral for the formation of new cells, especially during pregnancy. It is also effective in lowering the risk of certain cancers (such as cancers affecting the colon). Corn flakes are often consumed with milk, which amps up the protein content of your meal. It helps improve your immune function, regulates hormones and enzymes, and repairs body tissues at the same time.

The Most Common Types of Flaked CerealsCereals are commonly available in the form of flakes, and some of the common types of flaked cereals include:

1. Corn: Corn flakes are the most common type of flaked cereals. Having a bowl of corn flakes in the morning can keep you feeling energetic throughout the day.
2. Wheat Bran: Wheat bran flakes come as a rich source of fibre. Therefore, it may be beneficial for people with high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and digestive issues. Fibre-rich foods keep you satiated for long and thus aid in weight loss by preventing the need for frequent snacking.
3. Sorghum (Jowar): Sorghum is high in antioxidants such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and tannins. A diet rich in antioxidants helps lower inflammation in the body due to oxidative stress. It is also rich in B vitamins, which can play a crucial role in maintaining healthy hair and skin.

In India, the market is bursting with a plethora of cereal flakes. Amidst this sea of options, it can be tough to choose the right one. However, worry not, for we have selected the best options for you.

Firstly, the True Elements Multigrain Flakes With Honey is a true gem in the market. This pack of flakes is packed with the goodness of three nutritious whole grains - jowar (sorghum) flakes, wheat flakes, and bajra (pearl millet) flakes. These grains are rich in dietary fibre, which makes them highly beneficial for weight loss. Additionally, these flakes are free from added sugars and are sweetened using honey.

Furthermore, the bajra flakes are known for their complex carbohydrates that are slowly absorbed in the digestive tract. This promotes satiety and provides an energy boost. Meanwhile, jowar is also heart-healthy as it helps in reducing the "bad" cholesterol levels in the body, promoting a healthy heart.

​Secondly, the True Elements Jowar Flakes With Honey And Almonds is another excellent option. This ready-to-eat cereal pack contains no added sugar and is sweetened with raw honey. The flakes are baked to perfection, giving them a delightful crunch. The jowar flakes contain 3 times more fibre than regular corn flakes, making them highly beneficial for digestion, weight management, and blood sugar control.

​Moreover, for those with gluten allergies or coeliac disease, this gluten-free alternative can be a great option. The cereal tastes best with warm milk.

Thirdly, the True Elements Wheat Flakes Honey And Almonds are 100% whole grain breakfast cereal, free from added sugars and cholesterol. The perfect blend of raw honey and crunchy almond slices makes it a healthy and delicious breakfast option. These wheat flakes are a bowl full of nutrition, containing protein, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

The high dietary fibre content in the flakes helps in keeping your stomach satiated for longer, promoting weight loss, better heart health, and enhanced skin health.

Lastly, the True Elements Chocolate Wheat Flakes are a great option for those looking for a healthy and tasty breakfast. These flakes contain fibre-rich whole wheat flakes, the richness of dark chocolate, and sweetness with raw honey and jaggery. This pack contains no added sugar, making it suitable for diabetics and those on a weight loss regime.

In conclusion, it is important to be mindful of your portion sizes while consuming cereals. Some packaged corn flakes may contain high amounts of sugar, which can add to your calorie intake and may not be suitable for diabetics. Therefore, it is wise to opt for healthier options of flakes that contain no added sugar and more fibre, such as wheat or jowar flakes.