Cocoa Puffs were introduced into the market in the 1950s, and since then, it has dominated both the market and the hearts of the people. It is one of the most delicious chocolate cereals we have today. This chocolatey and corn-grain cereal is liked by both kids and adults.
But are cocoa puffs healthy?
Yes, Cocoa puffs are healthy if you eat them in moderation. They will provide a dose of nutrients, fibers, and good fat content. However, eating them more can lead to many health problems (described later in this article).
So, stay till the end and know everything about your favorite cereal.
Table of Content
What does Cocoa puff taste like? (For Those Who haven’t eaten them Yet)
The main ingredient in the cocoa puff is dark chocolate. So, you can taste both sweetness with a hint of bitterness. This taste is particularly liked by the kids and they can enjoy many health benefits by eating this cocoa cereal as well.
The first time children know about this cereal is via their catchy advertisement that starred Sonny the bird and grandpa. Now, Cocoa puffs are present in the kitchen of almost every home.
Health Benefits Of Cocoa Puffs
Want to know why Cocoa puffs are good for you? Well, then read this section carefully as we are explaining everything there is to know.
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Excellent Source of Nutrients:
Cocoa puffs are made up of corn grain, which are packed with vitamin A, D, calcium, zinc, and iron. These nutrients work together to improve eyesight, strengthen bones, make skin fresh, and improve hemoglobin performance.
Great source of fiber:
Cocoa puffs also contain fiber, which is clinically proven to be healthy for the stomach. Fiber content improves the digestion process and also makes you feel full.
People ask, Is eating cocoa puffs good for weight loss? Since you and the kids will feel full, the chances of eating any unhealthy snack are low. So, weight loss will become easy and smooth; and you have to just exercise for fat cell burning.
Low in Sugar:
Cocoa Puffs come with 25% and 75% less sugar for those who want to stay healthy. Sugar is highly undesirable in large amounts as it can cause obesity and cardiovascular problems.
Free from Artificial flavoring:
Many chocolate kinds of cereal use artificial flavoring to enhance their taste. However, these flavors put you at risk of different heart problems.
In cocoa puffs, the flavoring comes from the Cocoa, which is itself a healthy thing. Cocoa is known to reduce inflammation, strengthen immunity, and speed up metabolism.
So, you can enjoy all these benefits by eating cocoa puffs.
Low in “Bad” Fat:
There are two kinds of fat: saturated/ bad fat and unsaturated/good fat. Many bowls of cereal contain saturated fat in large amounts, but cocoa puffs are an exception.
It is a great thing because high saturated fats in the blood cause high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure levels, and disruption in the smooth flow of blood as well.
Gives You Energy:
The carbohydrates in the Cocoa puffs are a great source of energy. You need a lot of energy in the morning that keeps you going throughout the day. So, eating cocoa puffs with milk is one of the best things you can do in the morning.
If you don’t want to add animal milk, you can also add oat milk or any other plant-based milk to your bowl full of cocoa puffs.
What are the ingredients in the cocoa Puff?
Cocoa puffs have been manufactured by General Mills with the following ingredients:
- Whole Grain corn
- Corn Syrup
- Corn starch
- Fructose
- Cornmeal
- Phosphate
- Canola oil
- Color added salt
How Much Cocoa Puffs Should I eat?
Eating a serving of 36 grams is enough. Consuming them in more quantities can cause health problems, including obesity.
One serving of Cocoa Puffs’ nutritional value is:
| Calories | 147 cal |
| Carbs | 23g |
| Fat | 1.5g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Sodium | 30 mg |
Can I eat Two bowls of Cocoa Puff a Day?
No, you should not eat more than one bowl a day if you want to stay healthy. The good things about this cereal will turn bad if you eat the cereal more.
The calories and sugar content will cause a spike in the blood sugar levels, leading to diabetes. Similarly, weight gain will also happen if you eat two bowls of cocoa puffs in a day.
Let’s have a look at the unhealthy side of Cocoa puffs.
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Unhealthy Side of Cocoa Puffs
Eating too many cocoa puffs means you are intaking lots of calories, which leads to weight gain and heart problems. Similarly, the sweetness in cocoa puffs can cause tooth decay.
Moreover, many other important nutrients like potassium and magnesium are ignored by the manufacturers while making them.
Those who are suffering from diabetes but love chocolate cereals often ask, “Are cocoa puffs good for diabetics?” Sadly No. The calories in the Cocoa puffs make them unhealthy for those who have diabetes.
Similarly, pregnant women also search, Are cocoa puffs healthy during pregnancy? Well, they are healthy if you eat them in the recommended quantity. Eating more cocoa puffs can cause a rise in blood sugar levels, which can prove to be detrimental for the baby.
Is it healthy to eat Cocoa Puffs at night?
No, it is not healthy to eat cocoa puffs at night. The best time to eat the Cocoa puffs is in the morning.
You don’t have much activity to do after dinner. So, the calories you intake will not burn and store in the body instead. In the morning, you do a lot of activities, so calories keep on burning throughout the day. Hence, we recommend you don’t eat cocoa puffs at night.
How to store Cocoa Puffs?
Cocoa puffs are available in different sizes (small to giant) and flavors (ice cream scoop and brownie scoop).
You can store cocoa puffs in your fridge. It is recommended that you should not store an open package for more than three months as the quality will not remain the same after this time period.
Where Can You Add Cocoa Puffs?
Want to know what is the best way to eat Cocoa Puffs. With the milk, of course. Add Cocoa puffs and then milk to enjoy the nutritious and delicious breakfast. You will feel the similarities between cocoa puffs and chocolate milk.
Eating cocoa puffs with milk is not the only option. You can make desserts with cocoa puffs as well. For example, powdered cocoa puffs are used to make the famous no-bake cheesecake.
People also use this cereal brand to make delicious cocoa puffs pies as well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can vegans eat cocoa puffs?
No, vegans can’t eat cocoa puffs because the nutrients in the cereal are extracted from the animals.
Is Cocoa puff gluten-free?
No, cocoa puffs aren’t gluten-free because they are derived from corn grains. Anything that is made from grains like wheat, oats, corn, etc., will have gluten in them. Thus, cocoa puffs are not for those who have a gluten allergy.
What is the difference between Reese’s and Cocoa Puff?
Reese’s has peanut butter in it, while cocoa puffs are chocolate without any peanut butter. However, both Reese’s and Cocoa Puff have more or less the same nutritional value.
Final Words
Cocoa puffs with milk are one of the most eaten breakfasts in the USA. It is nutritious, tasty, and requires seconds to make. But are cocoa puffs healthy? Cocoa puffs are super healthy for you if you eat them in moderation.
One cup or 36 grams of Cocoa puffs will provide you with essential nutrients, fibers, and energy to do work throughout the day. However, if you consume cocoa puffs two or three times a day, you will face health problems like obesity, heart problems, tooth decay, and diabetes. So, eat in the suggested quantity and enjoy this delight along with amazing health benefits.
