Sign up for CNN’s Eat, But Better: Mediterranean Style. Our eight-part guide shows you a delicious expert-backed eating lifestyle that will boost your health for life. We all know that breakfast is an important meal, and even more so for children. Abundant research has demonstrated the benefit of nutritious breakfasts on children’s health, well-being and academic performance. Ready-to-eat cereals are the predominant breakfast choice among American children, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But that may not be the best option for growing children and adolescents. In newly launched cereals between 2010 and 2023, there were significant increases in fat, sodium and sugar and decreases in protein and fiber content, according to a new research study in JAMA Network Open. I wanted to better understand the implications for parents who want to learn about healthier options for their children. To help guide us, I spoke with CNN wellness expert Dr. Leana Wen. Wen is an emergency physician and adjunct associate professor at George Washington University. She previously served as Baltimore’s health commissioner and is the mother of two school-aged kids. CNN: How did these researchers study ready-to-eat cereals? Dr. Leana Wen: This study utilized a comprehensive database that tracks new product launches for food and beverages. Researchers examined cereal products that launched in the US market between 2010 and 2023 that were explicitly marketed to children ages 5 to 12 years old. During this period, about 1,200 children’s ready-to-eat cereals were launched. Compared to 2010, total fat per serving increased 33.6%; sodium content increased by 32.1%; and sugar by 10.9%. On the other hand, both protein content and dietary fiber content decreased when comparing 2010 to 2023. Notably, the average amount of added sugar is so high that a single serving of children’s cereal is more than 45% of the American Heart Association’s total daily recommended limit for children, according to the authors. CNN: Were you surprised by these findings? Wen: Frankly, yes. In recent years, many studies have shown the importance of a healthy breakfast to children’s well-being. Moreover, studies have demonstrated the problems associated with high levels of added sugar, sodium and fat content in food. Ultraprocessed foods laden with these additives have been associated with a myriad of negative health consequences, including obesity, diabetes, heart disease and premature death. What’s upsetting to me is that many products that are ultraprocessed and contain high levels of unhealthy ingredients are being marketed as being “healthy.” A 2024 study published in the journal Nutrients found that 60% of foods marketed to children ages 6 months to 36 months on 10 supermarkets’ shelves failed to meet recommended nutritional guidelines from the World Health Organization for infant and toddler foods. Virtually none of these meet WHO’s standards for advertising— instead they contained inaccurate health claims or failed to have clear labeling. All of this makes it hard for parents and families who want to choose healthier options for their children. CNN: What advice do you have for parents who want to feed their children healthier breakfasts? Wen: Parents should consider options outside of ready-made cereal. Some options for healthy breakfasts include steel-cut oats with honey and fresh fruit and whole-grain bread with peanut butter. Kids may also like eggs; no-sugar-added yogurt, which still has sugar in it; smoothies made with milk and fresh fruit; and homemade muffins. For parents looking for grab-and-go breakfasts, consider fresh fruit, nuts, hard-boiled eggs, muffins, smoothies and whole-grain bagels with low-fat cream cheese. CNN: What if parents want to serve cereal? What should they look for on the label? Wen: As a parent who has tried to find healthy cereals for my kids, I know myself that it is very hard to go through the cereal aisle and make sense of the packaging that claim the cereal is healthy. The best thing to do is to look at the label for each cereal you are considering. First, look for whole grains. Ideally, the label says that the cereal has 100% whole grain. Then, look at the sugar content. It’s best to have added sugar of less than 9 grams per serving . According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 10 grams per serving would already be 20% of the entire amount of added sugar someone is recommended to consume a day, if they have a 2,000 calorie diet. Try to find cereals with no food dyes or low-calorie sweeteners. The Center for Science in the Public Interest has a list of relatively healthier cereals. From a policy perspective, last year, the US Food and Drug Administration proposed a front-of-package label that would make it easier for consumers to know how products compare with regard to their added sugar, salt and saturated fat content. I think these improved labels can help if they are implemented. US Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has made reducing ultraprocessed food a centerpiece of his “Make America Healthy Again” agenda. Perhaps there will be policy solutions Kennedy will announce that can make it easier for families to opt for healthier choices. CNN: In the meantime, should parents avoid cereals and switch to other breakfast products? What do you do with your kids? Wen: I think the takeaway should be simply knowing that many cereals marketed to children are not the most nutritious choices. This doesn’t mean children should never be served these cereals but try to serve them in moderation or as a treat. Since I became aware of just how laden with additives our favorite cereals were, I began to serve my kids these cereals only as a treat, opting usually for milk served with steel-cut oats or whole-grain toast and peanut butter. On days when they have cereal, I make sure to tell them it’s a treat — just as I tell them it’s a treat when they have cookies and cupcakes. And then I try to make sure that their other meals are healthy. CNN: Do you have other advice for families trying to make more nutritional choices? Wen: It’s best to aim for meals with whole foods that are minimally processed, such as whole grains, fresh fruits, leafy green vegetables, legumes, fish and lean meat. Also keep in mind that what kids drink is just as important as what they eat. Stay away from sodas, juice drinks, energy drinks and other drinks with caffeine and high amounts of added sugar.
Kids’ breakfast cereal has gotten unhealthier, a new study finds
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Study Reveals Decline in Nutritional Quality of Children's Breakfast Cereals"
CNN
7.4
TruthLens AI Summary
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open has highlighted a concerning trend in the nutritional quality of breakfast cereals marketed to children in the United States. Between 2010 and 2023, researchers tracked approximately 1,200 new ready-to-eat cereals aimed at children aged 5 to 12 years. The findings revealed significant increases in unhealthy components such as total fat, sodium, and sugar, with total fat per serving rising by 33.6%, sodium by 32.1%, and sugar by 10.9%. Conversely, both protein and dietary fiber content saw a decline during the same period. Alarmingly, the study noted that a single serving of these cereals often exceeds 45% of the American Heart Association's recommended daily added sugar limit for children, raising serious health concerns about the long-term implications of such dietary choices on children's well-being and academic performance.
Dr. Leana Wen, a CNN wellness expert, emphasized the importance of breakfast for children's health and the troubling nature of marketing strategies that promote these ultraprocessed cereals as healthy options. She advised parents to explore alternatives to ready-made cereals, suggesting nutritious breakfast options like steel-cut oats, whole-grain bread with peanut butter, and fresh fruits. For those who prefer cereals, Dr. Wen recommended scrutinizing labels for whole grains, low added sugar content, and the absence of artificial ingredients. She also highlighted the potential for policy changes, such as improved front-of-package labeling proposed by the FDA, which could assist families in making healthier choices. Ultimately, Dr. Wen encourages parents to focus on whole, minimally processed foods and to view sugary cereals as occasional treats rather than staples in their children's diets.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article highlights concerning trends in children’s breakfast cereals, emphasizing their declining nutritional value over the past decade. This poses significant implications for parents and guardians seeking healthier options for their children. By showcasing data from a recent study in JAMA Network Open, the piece aims to raise awareness about the increasing levels of unhealthy ingredients in cereals marketed towards children.
Purpose of the Article
The intent behind this publication appears to be to inform parents about the deteriorating health standards of breakfast cereals targeted at children. By presenting statistical data on fat, sugar, and sodium increases, alongside decreases in protein and fiber, the article encourages parents to reconsider their choices when it comes to children's breakfast options. This aligns with broader public health initiatives aimed at improving child nutrition.
Public Perception
The article is likely designed to foster a sense of concern and urgency among parents regarding their children's dietary habits. By emphasizing the negative changes in cereal content, it aims to provoke a response that may lead to increased scrutiny of food marketing practices and a push for healthier product options in the market.
Hidden Agendas
While the article appears straightforward in its critique of cereals, it could be interpreted as part of a larger narrative in the health and wellness industry, which often emphasizes whole foods and home-cooked meals. By not addressing the potential benefits or convenience of ready-to-eat cereals, the article might inadvertently overshadow other convenient breakfast options that could be healthier.
Manipulative Elements
The article's manipulative potential lies in its stark presentation of statistics, which could lead to fear-based reactions from parents. By focusing heavily on the increased levels of sugar and fat, it draws attention to the negatives without offering a balanced view of the entire breakfast options landscape. This could lead to an oversimplified perception that all cereals are inherently bad.
Truthfulness of the Content
The data presented in the article comes from a credible study, lending it a high level of reliability. However, the way the information is framed can influence public perception. It’s important for readers to critically assess the broader context of nutritional information and marketing practices.
Societal Impact
This type of reporting could potentially influence consumer behavior, leading to a decrease in sales of certain cereal brands and an increase in demand for healthier alternatives. It could also spur discussions about food regulations and marketing practices directed at children, possibly resulting in policy changes.
Target Audience
The article is likely aimed at health-conscious parents, educators, and child health advocates, addressing their concerns about children's nutrition. It resonates particularly with communities focused on health and wellness, as well as those advocating for children's health rights.
Market Implications
The news about unhealthy cereals could affect companies that produce breakfast foods, potentially impacting their stock prices. Brands that are associated with healthier products may see a positive market response, while those linked to sugary cereals could face negative repercussions.
Global Relevance
In the context of ongoing discussions about childhood obesity and health standards globally, the article is relevant. It aligns with current public health initiatives aimed at reducing sugar consumption among children, making it timely in today's health discourse.
AI Involvement
There is no clear indication that artificial intelligence was used in the writing of this article. However, if AI models were involved, they might have contributed to data analysis or language optimization, ensuring that the content is engaging and persuasive.
The news carries a mix of reliable data and potential manipulation through its presentation style. The overall message sheds light on an important public health issue while simultaneously pushing a narrative that may not fully encompass all aspects of children’s nutrition. It is crucial for readers to remain aware of the nuances in food marketing and to seek balanced information.