An introduction to muesli
Muesli is a mixture of uncooked cereal flakes, nuts, almonds, dried fruit and berries which are usually brought together using a liquid such as milk, yogurt or fruit juice. This means it contains a whole variety of nutrients and vitamins that are of benefit to our health.
Varieties of muesli
Muesli is made from a base of cereals such as wholegrain rye, wheat, oat, barley, brown rice and millet which are made in to flakes. However, sprouted soybeans are also sometimes used (the sprouting takes away the bitterness and makes it more digestible) which provides a good source of protein.
After the base is made, a whole variety of ingredients can be added including chestnut flakes, dried apples, raisins, dried cranberries, almonds and hazelnuts. Dried fruits enhance the taste of the muesli besides giving it valuable fruit sugars.
So, when choosing muesli or making your own, there are so many to varieties available which means you can pick whichever one takes your fancy!
Nutritional information
As muesli contains lots of nuts, it’s a good source of omega-3 and protein Fruity varieties on the other hand, mean it can be a good source of vitamin C, antioxidants and fibre.
As there are so many varieties of muesli though, the nutritional values do vary considerably. However, a 45g serving of muesli with no added sugar will contain around 167 calories, 2.7g fat, 6.3g sugars and 3.8g fibre.
Health benefits
Ever heard it said that a food will keep you “fuller for longer”? Well, as muesli is free from the refined sugars contained in many breakfast cereals, and because it contains carbohydrates that provide a slow release of energy, it is one of these foods.
Other health benefits are provided by antioxidants, which support immune and digestive function, and protein, which is good for the digestive system.