I’ve recently switched the majority of my breakfast meals from a quick bowl of cereal in a cup of milk to a smoothie (yep, got a new blender). My smoothies include fruit (bananas, pineapple, peaches, and/or oranges), ½ cup skim milk, a scoop of vanilla protein powder, ice, and sometimes a spoon of all natural peanut butter. I’ve recently added a ¼ cup of oats. Which is better – cereal or smoothie? There seems to be pros and cons of each. Any guidance would be appreciated. Thanks, Dave H.
You’re right! There are pros and cons for your 2 main breakfasts. The best option, Dave, depends on what your goal is.
If you want to be satisfied with a hearty breakfast that will carry you through until a late lunch, then the smoothie with fruit, milk, protein, peanut butter, and oats is the better choice. If you are cutting calories to lose weight the cereal and milk have less energy. If you are exercising in the morning and plan on a mid-morning snack afterward then the cereal and milk are superior. For time’s sake the cereal option is faster unless you have your smoothie ingredients measured out and ready to go the night before.
The smoothie option is more balanced providing your fruit is less than 2 cups worth raw. Beyond that, the simple carbohydrates dominate over the other ingredients. You wouldn’t add a cup of raisins to your cereal, would you? A couple of spoonfuls of dried fruit or a handful of berries complement the cereal and some crushed nuts would make it complete. You’ll have to decide which option works best unless the minute hand decides for you!
– Debbie J., MS, RD
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