Weetabix fans are in for a shock as experts deliver a health blow to those indulging in the tempting flavours of this British breakfast staple.
Rhiannon Lambert, a renowned nutritionist and author, has sounded the alarm over opting for flavoured versions of Weetabix, which despite their appeal, she claims don’t match the health benefits of the classic kind.
She warned, as reported by The Telegraph: “These cereals are a good way to get a good portion of your daily protein intake through breakfast, but the sugar content is a little higher than the original Weetabix.
“I would choose original Weetabix or Oatibix because they offer a balanced nutritional profile with minimal added sugars, making them a great breakfast choice for most people. This also gives you the freedom to pair your plain biscuits with healthy toppings of your choice.”
Flavoured Weetabix such as the chocolate, banana, and fruit and nut minis have a much higher sugar content than the original (up to 8.1g for the chocolate flavour biscuits), reports the Mirror.
While Lambert raises red flags about the sweetness stakes of certain Weetabix treats, she still champions the original version as part of a healthy morning meal.
She highlighted the benefits of Weetabix, saying: “The sugar content in Weetabix is minimal, which helps to manage blood sugar levels.
“This is really important for energy, and especially relevant to children.
“Sending your child to school after a sugary bowl of cereal will cause their blood glucose levels to rise quickly, then dramatically plunge, which will leave them feeling hungry and likely unable to concentrate.”
“Weetabix can be prepared quickly with milk or a plant-based alternative and topped with fruits for added nutrition and variety.
“This ease of preparation makes it an excellent choice for busy mornings when time is limited.”
Paediatric dietitian Emma Shafquat also lauded Weetabix in her statements to The Telegraph: “For a lot of children, especially fussy eaters, and adults, especially women, fortified cereal can be a great way to add extra iron.
“Folic acid can reduce the risk of neural tube defects during pregnancy, so it’s a positive thing that Weetabix is fortified with extra nutrients.”