There is a new fad these days about consuming or making granolas. But is Granola really a healthy alternative or a western marketed food product. Granola is gaining popularity as a snack or breakfast food made from a mixture of oats, nuts, seeds, and sweeteners. While it is a good source of nutrients such as fibre, protein, and healthy fats, the healthfulness of granola can vary depending on the ingredients and serving size. In this article, we will explore the health benefits of granola and discuss nutrition profile of granola.

Is Granola good for you?

Granola is proved to be a good choice for you, make sure you choose the right one made with whole grains, nuts, and seeds and is consumed in appropriate portion sizes. Granola can be a good source of nutrients such as fibre, protein, and healthy fats. These nutrients can help support a healthy diet and provide energy for your daily activities. Granola is a convenient snack or breakfast option that can be easily stored and transported. It can be eaten on its own or added to yogurt, smoothies, or other dishes for added texture and flavour. Granola comes in a variety of flavours and can be customized to fit your taste preferences. Granola is typically low in saturated fat, which can help support heart health. Choosing granolas that are made with healthy fats like nuts and seeds can further support heart health.

Is Granola bad for you?

Some granolas can be high in added sugars, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in excess. It’s important to read labels and choose brands that are lower in added sugars and calories to ensure that you are getting the most nutrients from your granola. It must be consumed in appropriate portion sizes.

Nutrition Value of Granola

The nutrition profile of granola can vary depending on the ingredients and serving size. The typical serving size is 28-35 grams. Here are some general nutrition guidelines for granola:

• Calories: A serving of granola can range from 140 to 350 calories, depending on the ingredients and serving size.
• Protein: Granola can be a good source of protein, with a typical serving providing 5-10 grams of protein.
• Fat: Granola can contain both healthy and unhealthy fats. Look for granolas that are made with healthy fats from nuts and seeds, rather than unhealthy fats from added oils or butter.
• Fibre: Granola can be a good source of fibre, with a typical serving providing 3-6 grams of fibre.
• Carbohydrates: Granola is typically high in carbohydrates, with a typical serving providing 20-40 grams of carbs.
• Sugar: The amount of sugar in granola can vary widely, with some brands containing 8-15 grams of sugar per serving. Choose granolas that are lower in added sugars to help reduce the risk of weight gain and other health issues. These Granolas are made from fresh fruits, fresh nuts, unsweetened cocoa and real coffee.

Health Benefits of Granola

Granola can provide a number of health benefits when consumed as part of a healthy diet and in appropriate portion sizes. Here are some health benefits of granola:

1. Boosts gut health: The fibre in granola can help support regular bowel movements and may help reduce the risk of constipation and other digestive issues. Prebiotic fibres in particular, such as those found in oats, can help feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut and support overall gut health.
2. Decreases cholesterol levels: Studies have shown that consuming oats, which are often a main ingredient in granola, can help decrease cholesterol levels. The soluble fibre in oats can bind to cholesterol in the digestive tract and help remove it from the body.
3. Full of fibre & good fat: Granola can be a good source of fibre, with a typical serving providing 3-6 grams of fibre. It can also contain healthy fats from nuts and seeds, which can support heart health.
4. Aids in weight loss: Granola can be a satisfying snack or breakfast option that can help reduce hunger and cravings. However, it's important to pay attention to portion sizes and choose granolas that are lower in added sugars and calories to help support weight management.
5. Improves blood pressure: Some studies have shown that consuming oats, which are often a main ingredient in granola, can help lower blood pressure. The soluble fibre in oats can help decrease the absorption of cholesterol in the bloodstream, which can lead to a decrease in blood pressure

The Bottom Line

Ensure that you are picking a healthy snack that you like. If you ask me, healthy snack should also be yummy. So, it sticks with us for a long time. Overall, it's important to choose snacks that are nutrient-rich and satisfying, and to pay attention to portion sizes and the types of ingredients in your snacks to ensure that they provide sustained energy and don't lead to an energy crash. As per Granola, there are different flavours for you to pick from according to your taste and even mix-and-match according to your mood. Check here some of the most Flavourful Granolas in the market; Orange Hazelnut & Dark Chocolate, Strawberry Walnut & Chocolate, Double Chocolate, Mocha Hazelnut and Pineapple Coconut.