We've all heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. But with so many options, it can be hard to find healthy and delicious options that are also quick.
Nine out of 10 families in the U.S. turn to a bowl of cereal to kick off their mornings, making it a staple in 91 percent of American households. Most eat it for breakfast, but 11 percent have cereal for dinner, according to the market research company Mintel.
There are many choices in the cereal aisle that feature healthy claims on the labels -- but how do they stack up?
Consumer Reports says customers should look for cereals that contain at least five grams of fiber or more, a maximum of three grams of fat, a maximum of 140 milligrams of sodium, and less than eight grams of sugar per serving.
A short ingredient list is also important. Fewer ingredients typically indicate that the cereal has fewer artificial ingredients and more natural ingredients.
Topping Consumer Reports' list of delicious, healthy cereals is Bob's Red Mill Old Country Style Muesli. It is loaded with fresh-tasting raisins, dates, nuts, seeds and raw oats.
Kind Vanilla Blueberry Clusters with Flax won panelists over with its large oat clusters, puffed rice and tasty blueberry-flavored bits that nearly fooled the sensory team.
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Another cereal rated "very good" was Cheerios. It has simple toasted oat flavors, and it goes great with a banana.
In all, Consumer Reports recommends 13 healthy, tasty cereals that will start your day on a yummy note.
And there are plenty of reasons to take a moment and eat breakfast.
Studies show it may protect you against heart disease, reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes and may even improve your mind. Research on adults and children found that having breakfast can enhance memory, attention, and verbal abilities by stabilizing your glucose levels.
So eat up!
