12 Healthiest Cereals You Can Find On Grocery Shelves
Breakfast cereal can be a quick and easy morning option, but not all boxes are perfect for your most important meal of the day. Many popular cereals are loaded with sugar and empty calories while lacking important nutrients.
Fortunately, there are plenty of genuinely healthy options available that can fuel your day with fiber, protein, and whole grains.
1. General Mills Original Cheerios
Those iconic little O’s have been a breakfast staple for generations, and for good reason! Made with 100% whole grain oats, they deliver heart-healthy benefits without the sugar overload.
With just 1 gram of sugar per serving and 4 grams of fiber, Cheerios help lower cholesterol while keeping things simple.
My grandma has started every day with a bowl for 30 years and swears it’s her secret to longevity!
2. Three Wishes Unsweetened Cereal
Grain-free eaters, rejoice! This innovative cereal breaks all the rules by using chickpea and pea protein instead of traditional grains. The result? A crunchy, satisfying bowl with zero sugar and an impressive 8 grams of protein per serving.
Perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone looking to reduce carbs while maintaining breakfast satisfaction. The simple ingredient list makes this a true nutritionist favorite.
3. Purely Elizabeth Vanilla Blueberry Almond Superfood
Superfoods for super mornings! This granola-style cereal combines ancient grains like quinoa and amaranth with antioxidant-rich blueberries and crunchy almonds. The subtle vanilla flavor satisfies sweet cravings without sugar overload.
With just 8 grams of added sugar (much less than typical cereals), plus 6 grams of fiber and 5 grams of protein, it’s a balanced choice. The vitamin D fortification is an extra bonus for bone health.
4. Nature’s Path Organic Heritage Flakes
These crispy, toasty flakes blend ancient grains like kamut, quinoa, and spelt for a delightfully nutty flavor profile that makes conventional flakes seem boring.
Each serving delivers 7 grams of fiber and 5 grams of protein with less than 5 grams of sugar. The organic certification means no synthetic pesticides or GMOs ended up in your breakfast bowl. Morning win!
5. Love Grown Power O’s
Who knew beans could make such amazing cereal? These playful O’s are crafted from navy beans, lentils, and garbanzo beans instead of the usual grains – a protein-packed twist on a childhood favorite!
When my picky nephew tried these, he had no idea he was eating beans for breakfast. The mild, slightly sweet flavor pairs perfectly with milk or yogurt.
Each serving offers impressive protein and fiber content that keeps hunger at bay for hours.
6. Post Grape-Nuts Original
Don’t let the name fool you – these crunchy nuggets contain neither grapes nor nuts! What they do offer is impressive nutrition from just four simple ingredients: whole grain wheat flour, malted barley flour, salt, and dried yeast.
The dense, crunchy texture makes them incredibly satisfying. With 7 grams of fiber and 6 grams of protein per serving, plus no added sugar, they’re practically the antithesis of sugary cereals.
Their concentrated iron content has made them a favorite among athletes.
7. Post Great Grains (Raisins, Dates & Pecans)
Breakfast meets trail mix in this delightful blend! Crunchy whole grain flakes mingle with chewy raisins, sweet dates, and buttery pecan pieces for a texture party in every spoonful.
Unlike many fruit-added cereals that use artificial flavors, Great Grains uses the real deal. Each serving provides 4 grams of fiber and 4 grams of protein, plus 12 essential vitamins and minerals.
The natural sweetness from the fruits means less added sugar is needed.
8. Weetabix Original
These rectangular wheat biscuits from across the pond have gained a loyal following for good reason. Made primarily from whole grain wheat, they provide a blank canvas for healthy toppings while delivering solid nutrition.
I discovered these while studying abroad and became obsessed with their versatility. Each two-biscuit serving contains 3.8 grams of fiber and 4.5 grams of protein with minimal sugar.
Their unique shape and texture make them perfect for creative breakfast builds with fruit, yogurt, or nut butter.
9. Kashi GO Rise
Fuel your morning adventures with these protein-packed multigrain crisps! The hearty blend of seven whole grains and sesame creates a satisfying crunch that stays crisp in milk longer than most cereals.
A ¾ cup serving delivers a whopping 46% of your daily fiber needs and substantial plant protein. The touch of honey and cinnamon provides just enough sweetness without sugar overload.
Perfect for active mornings when you need sustained energy without a mid-morning crash.
10. Nature’s Path Smart Bran
Fiber champions, meet your breakfast soulmate! This powerful blend of wheat bran, oat bran, and psyllium seed husks delivers an astonishing 17 grams of fiber per serving – that’s 70% of your daily needs!
The psyllium component helps stabilize blood sugar levels while promoting digestive health. With minimal sugar and organic ingredients, it’s a nutritionist’s dream.
Mix with berries and yogurt to transform this practical powerhouse into a genuinely delicious breakfast.
11. Nature’s Path Flax Plus Raisin Bran
Traditional raisin bran gets a nutritional upgrade with the addition of omega-3-rich flaxseeds! These crunchy flakes dotted with plump raisins provide the perfect balance of fiber, healthy fats, and natural sweetness.
Unlike conventional raisin brans that can pack 18+ grams of sugar, this version contains just 7.2 grams per serving. The organic whole wheat flakes and flaxseeds create a nutty flavor profile that makes this morning staple feel special.
My morning digestion has never been better since switching!
12. One Degree Sprouted Brown Rice Cacao Crisps
Chocolate for breakfast? Yes please! These guilt-free crisps combine sprouted brown rice with organic fair-trade cacao for a breakfast that feels indulgent while remaining nutritious.
The sprouting process increases nutrient availability and digestibility. With just six simple, organic ingredients and moderate sweetness from coconut sugar, it’s a transparent choice you can feel good about.
Kids love the chocolate taste while parents appreciate the clean ingredient list!