A dietitian recently claimed that pizza could be more nutritious than breakfast cereal, but another nutritionist says it's not always true. (iStock/Reuters)
Looking to start your day off with a nutritious meal? Forget Cheerios. Instead, reach for a slice of pizza, says one dietitian.
On Monday, blogger and dietitian Chelsey Amer caused a stir when the told the Daily Meal that a greasy slice of pizza is healthier than a bowl of cereal with milk, the Chicago Tribune reported.
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“You may be surprised to find out that an average slice of pizza and a bowl of cereal with whole milk contain nearly the same amount of calories,” Amer said. “However, pizza packs a much larger protein punch, which will keep you full and boost satiety throughout the morning.”
She acknowledges that pizza isn’t necessarily a health food, but maintains that it’s a more balanced meal than a typical bowl of sugar flakes.
But don’t take that as license to turn Papa John’s into a breakfast staple. New York-based dietitian Keri Gans says that cereal can be a perfectly healthy breakfast option — yes, healthier than pizza — as long as you’re smart about it.
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“Cereal can absolutely be a vehicle for getting important nutrients into your diet to start your day off right,” Gans tells The Post.
First things first: Buy a good box. “If you choose the right cereal that’s packed with fiber, it may help lower cholesterol and control blood sugar,” Gans says. This helps keep your appetite in check — and helps fend off midmorning hunger pangs. Check the nutrition panel: If it has 3 grams of sugar or fewer, and at least 6 grams of fiber, you’re in good shape.
Dietitian Chelsey Amer claimed that since cereal and a slice of pizza have roughly the same amount of calories, the pizza has more protein, and is sometimes more nutritious. (iStock.)
The second key, Gans says, is being smart about your add-ons. “You could top your cereal with berries, which are rich in vitamins,” she says. Other good options include chopped apples or bananas, nuts, seeds (such as chia) or even a dollop of yogurt. With toppings like these, you work plenty of nutrition into your bowl — far more than you’d find on a dollar slice.
