One of the most common misconceptions I see is all muesli being labeled as “healthy.” Unfortunately, most of the store bought or even cafe muesli’s are far from healthy! Many have added preservatives, sugars, nasty vegetable oils, are filled up with cheap puffed grains and contain high amounts of dried fruits.
There are so many options in the cereal aisle, it is hard to pick the good from the bad. The reality is that your breakfast cereal could be the culprit for a growing waistline, or the reason you are starving by mid morning. Let’s fix that with my tips for choosing a healthy muesli…
Always choose raw untoasted
Most toasted muesli’s have been oven roasted in unhealthy vegetable oils and loads of added sweeteners. So unless you’re making your own dry oven baked muesli at home, i’d avoid most of the toasted mueslis on the market.
Choose an oat based muesli
Oats are high in fibre and wholegrain goodness, which also keep your blood sugar levels stable until lunchtime. This will keep you energised and satisfied, without any mid morning slumps.
Avoid puffed cereals
Many of these are highly processed and to put it simply, you will be hungry again in an hour! Choose a base with rolled grains like oats or quinoa.
Go easy on the dried fruits
A small amount in the morning is fine. But if you are looking for healthy weight loss, then I would recommend choosing a fruit free option like Carmen’s Original Fruit Free Muesli.
“Gluten Free” is not always healthier
Most packaged gluten free muesli’s are toasted with loads of added sugars. So when it comes to gluten free, always choose an un-toasted version or to save money, make your own! Check out my homemade gluten free recipe here!
Do you make your own muesli? I’d love to hear your favourite recipes and muesli ingredients!
