Children want to eat foods that taste good, and parents want their children to eat nutritious foods that will promote healthy growth and development. Food products sweetened with sugar, such as cereal, can be a part of a healthy diet, providing essential nutrients and energy for school and play.

Presweetened Cereal Facts

• A bowl of presweetened cereal is considered one grain serving from the MyPyramid Grains food group.
• Cereals are tasty and convenient
• Studies show that children who regularly eat breakfast are more likely to meet their nutritional needs, perform better in school and have healthier body weights.1
• Children who eat breakfast regularly are more likely to make healthy food choices throughout the day and are more physically active.1
• Presweetened cereals can provide as many vitamins and minerals as unsweetened cereals.
• Presweetened cereals are a source of nutrients, including B-vitamins, iron and zinc.
• Only 5 percent of the sugar consumed by U.S. children comes from ready-to-eat cereals.2
• A sweet-tasting food does not cause you to eat more.3

References:
1. Rampersaud MS, Pereira MA, Girard BL et al. Breakfast habits, nutritional status, body weight, and academic performance in children. J Am Diet Assoc. 2005;105:743-760.
2. NHANES 2001-02, USDA Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies, version 1.0.
3. Anderson GH, Woodend D. Consumption of sugars and the regulation of short-term satiety and food intake. Am J Clin Nutr. 2003;78(supple): 843S-9S.