Why does granola have so many calories

Kerry Torrens BSc. Over the last 15 years she has been a contributing author to a number of nutritional and cookery publications including BBC Good Food. Nicola Shubrook is a nutritional therapist and works with both private clients and the corporate sector. Find out more at urbanwellness. All health content on bbcgoodfood. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local healthcare provider. See our website terms and conditions for more information.

Sign in. Back to Recipes Pumpkin recipes Butternut squash See more. Back to Recipes Easy dinners Easy cocktails See more. Back to Recipes Cheesecakes Cookies See more. Back to Recipes Family meals One-pot recipes See more.

Back to Recipes Quick and healthy Quick vegetarian See more. Back to Recipes Vegetable soups Healthy soups See more. Back to Recipes Chicken curry Pasta See more. One fourth of a cup gives you a healthy mix of major and trace minerals. Most notable are magnesium and zinc, with 12 percent of the daily value; phosphorus, with 11 percent; and manganese, with 53 percent.

You need magnesium and phosphorus for strong bones and zinc for wound healing and general immune health. Manganese makes up part of many bodily enzymes. The oats in granola supply an impressive amount of vitamin E. One fourth of a cup gives you 23 percent of the DV for this antioxidant vitamin, which helps protect your cells from damage caused by rogue molecules called free radicals.

In addition to boosting immunity, vitamin E supports the manufacture of red blood cells. You'll also get a good mix of B vitamins from granola. This group of nutrients works together to metabolize the macronutrients you eat into energy and to support brain and nerve health. Steer away from sugary additives like chocolate, which turn granola into dessert.

You can make your own healthy granola and control the amount of added sugar by using a small amount of honey or agave nectar for sweetening.

Although granola contains several healthy ingredients, it can be high in calories and packed with added fats and sugars. Fats like vegetable oil, coconut oil, and nut butters are often included to help bind the ingredients, add flavor, and aid in the toasting process.

However, these can supply excess calories. Eating more than the specified portion may lead to unwanted weight gain, increasing your risk of obesity and metabolic disease Additionally, the U. Some granolas have nearly 4 teaspoons 17 grams of sugar in a single serving. Eating too much sugar may increase your risk of many conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, heart disease, cavities, and even some types of cancer 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 , As such, watch out for ingredients like chocolate chips, honey, and dried fruit with added sugar.

Granola may prompt weight gain if eaten in excess, as it can be high in calories from added fats and sugars. Check the ingredient list, avoiding products that list sugar or sweeteners —including natural sweeteners like honey — within the first few ingredients. Instead, the first few ingredients should be whole foods, such as oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. You may also want to look for varieties high in protein and fiber.

Aim for at least 3—5 grams of fiber per serving Finally, you can make granola yourself to minimize or eliminate added sugar and fat. However, remember that nuts and seed are still calorie-dense , so be sure to watch your portions even for homemade varieties. To control ingredients more carefully, try making this scrumptious breakfast food at home.

Granola is a nutritious, filling cereal. However, many varieties are high in calories and packed with excess sugar, which can harm your health. Be sure to carefully read labels, choosing products with whole ingredients — like raisins , seeds, and nuts — that are high in protein and fiber. Many people consider granola bars a convenient snack and enjoy their flavor and versatility. This article reviews the benefits and downsides of….

Cereal is a popular breakfast food, but it's often loaded with sugar and other unhealthy ingredients.