Nutritive and Dietetic Value of Cereals

Average Composition of Cereals: Wheat

Protein	Fats	Carbohydrates	Minerals	Vitamins	Water
14%	2.5%	71%	Calcium, iron, and phosphorus	B group, E	12%

Nutritive Value (What nutrients cereals provide):

• LBV protein: Cereals provide low biological value protein, which is essential for growth and repair of bodily cells.
• Gluten: Most cereals contain gluten, except for some like maize (important for people with gluten intolerance). Gluten is a protein.
• Unsaturated fat: Found in small amounts in the germ.
• Fibre: Unprocessed cereals are high in fibre, aiding digestion.
• Minerals and vitamins: Cereals are a source of calcium, iron, phosphorus, and B-group vitamins.
• Vitamin E: Found in the germ.
• Fortified cereals: Many cereals are fortified with additional vitamins and minerals during production.
• Water: Cereals have a low water content.

Dietetic Value (How cereals fit into different diets):

• Vegan diets: Suitable for vegans due to the protein content.
• Low-fat/low-calorie diets: Good for these diets unless extra fats are added (like butter on bread).
• Fibre: Helps prevent constipation and other bowel issues.
• Cheap and filling: Cereals are affordable and provide a feeling of fullness.
• Coeliac disease: People with coeliac disease cannot eat gluten-containing cereals but can eat maize.