Cinnamon Chex, a popular breakfast cereal from General Mills, offers a sweet and crunchy start to the day. This gluten-free option features rice squares dusted with real cinnamon and sugar, providing a flavorful twist on the classic Chex cereal.

A 3/4 cup serving of Cinnamon Chex contains 170 calories, 4 grams of fat, and 33 grams of carbohydrates, including 8 grams of sugar and 2 grams of dietary fiber. The cereal also serves as a source of essential nutrients, including calcium and iron. General Mills has formulated Cinnamon Chex without artificial flavors, colors, or high fructose corn syrup.

Health-conscious consumers may appreciate that Cinnamon Chex provides 13 grams of whole grain rice per serving. The cereal can be enjoyed on its own or incorporated into various Chex Mix recipes for a versatile snacking option. Its nutritional profile makes it a consideration for those seeking a gluten-free breakfast alternative with a touch of sweetness.

Nutritional Overview

Cinnamon Chex cereal provides a mix of macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals in each serving. The cereal contains primarily carbohydrates, with smaller amounts of fat and protein, as well as various micronutrients added through fortification.

Macronutrients

A serving of Cinnamon Chex contains 170 calories. The primary macronutrient is carbohydrates, making up 33g per serving, which includes 2g of dietary fiber and 8g of sugar. This accounts for about 12% of the daily value for carbohydrates.

Protein content is relatively low at 5% of the cereal’s composition. The total fat content is 4g per serving, with 0g of saturated fat and no trans fat. The fat profile includes 1g of polyunsaturated fat and 2.5g of monounsaturated fat.

Cinnamon Chex is cholesterol-free. The sodium content is 250mg, representing 11% of the daily value.

Vitamins

Cinnamon Chex is fortified with several vitamins. These include vitamin A, vitamin C (sodium ascorbate), and various B vitamins. Specifically, it contains niacinamide (a B vitamin), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride), vitamin B1 (thiamin mononitrate), and vitamin B2 (riboflavin).

Vitamin E is added in the form of mixed tocopherols, which serves as a preservative to maintain freshness. The exact amounts of these vitamins are not specified in the provided information.

Minerals

The cereal is fortified with several important minerals. Calcium carbonate is added, contributing to daily calcium needs. Iron and zinc are also included as mineral nutrients, though specific quantities are not provided in the search results.

These minerals play crucial roles in various bodily functions, including bone health, oxygen transport, and immune system support. The addition of these minerals helps enhance the nutritional profile of Cinnamon Chex, making it a more well-rounded breakfast option.

Detailed Nutrient Composition

Cinnamon Chex cereal contains a mix of macronutrients and micronutrients. The cereal provides carbohydrates as its main energy source, along with smaller amounts of protein and fat. It is fortified with various vitamins and minerals to enhance its nutritional profile.

Fats and Fatty Acids

Cinnamon Chex contains a modest amount of fat, primarily from canola and/or rice bran oil. The total fat content is approximately 10% of the cereal by weight. Most of this fat comes from unsaturated sources, which are generally considered healthier options.

The cereal contains no cholesterol and minimal trans fats. Saturated fat content is low, while monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats make up the majority of the fat profile. Omega-6 fatty acids are likely present due to the vegetable oils used, but specific amounts are not provided.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates form the bulk of Cinnamon Chex’s nutritional composition, accounting for about 82.5% of its content. The cereal is made primarily from whole grain rice and rice, providing complex carbohydrates.

Sugar is added to enhance flavor, with both regular sugar and fructose listed as ingredients. The exact amount of fiber is not specified, but whole grain rice does contribute some dietary fiber.

Added sugars are present, though their precise quantity is not disclosed in the available information. The combination of complex carbohydrates and sugars provides quick and sustained energy.

Proteins and Amino Acids

Protein makes up approximately 5% of Cinnamon Chex’s nutritional content. While not a significant source of protein, it does contribute to the overall nutrient profile.

The cereal’s protein comes mainly from the rice ingredients. Rice protein contains all essential amino acids, though it is not considered a complete protein source due to limiting amounts of certain amino acids.

Specific amino acid profiles are not provided in the available information. The protein content helps contribute to the cereal’s satiety factor, albeit in a limited capacity.

Vitamins and Minerals

Cinnamon Chex is fortified with several vitamins and minerals to enhance its nutritional value. Key additions include calcium carbonate, iron, and zinc as mineral nutrients.

Vitamin C (sodium ascorbate) is added, along with B vitamins including niacinamide (B3), pyridoxine hydrochloride (B6), and thiamin mononitrate (B1). Vitamin A is also included in the fortification mix.

The cereal likely contains small amounts of naturally occurring minerals from its rice ingredients, such as phosphorus and magnesium. Sodium is present as part of the added salt. Specific quantities of these nutrients are not provided in the available information.

Health Benefits and Considerations

Cinnamon Chex offers some nutritional advantages but also has aspects to be mindful of. Its fiber content supports digestive health, while the cereal provides essential vitamins and minerals. The sugar content warrants attention for those monitoring their intake.

Dietary Fiber Benefits

Cinnamon Chex contains dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes feelings of fullness. Fiber helps maintain healthy bowel movements and may lower cholesterol levels. A serving of Cinnamon Chex provides about 2 grams of fiber.

This amount contributes to the recommended daily intake of 25-30 grams for adults. Increasing fiber intake gradually is advisable to avoid digestive discomfort.

Fiber also plays a role in blood sugar management, potentially helping to stabilize glucose levels after eating.

Sugar Content and Health

The sugar content in Cinnamon Chex is a key consideration. Each serving contains 8-10 grams of sugar, including added sugars.

Excessive sugar intake is linked to various health concerns:

• Weight gain
• Increased risk of type 2 diabetes
• Dental issues

The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugars to no more than 25 grams per day for women and 36 grams for men. A single serving of Cinnamon Chex accounts for a significant portion of this limit.

Consumers should be aware of their total daily sugar intake when including this cereal in their diet.

Role of Essential Vitamins and Minerals

Cinnamon Chex is fortified with several essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall nutrition. Key nutrients include:

• Iron: Supports oxygen transport in the body
• Vitamin D: Aids calcium absorption and bone health
• Vitamin B12: Crucial for nerve function and red blood cell formation
• Folate: Important for cell growth and DNA synthesis

The cereal also contains calcium, which is vital for strong bones and teeth. Magnesium, present in smaller amounts, supports muscle and nerve function.

These added nutrients can help fill nutritional gaps, especially for those with restricted diets. However, it’s important to note that fortified foods should not replace a varied, balanced diet.

Cereal Serving Size and Consumption

A standard serving size for Cinnamon Chex cereal is 1 cup, which weighs approximately 40-41 grams. This portion contains 170 calories and represents about 5% of the Daily Value for total fat.

Many people tend to pour more than the recommended serving size into their bowls. This can lead to unintended overconsumption of calories and nutrients.

To practice portion control, consumers can:

• Use a measuring cup
• Stick to the serving size listed on the nutrition label
• Be mindful of how much they pour into their bowl

Incorporating Cinnamon Chex into a balanced diet requires attention to overall calorie and nutrient intake. The cereal can be part of a nutritious breakfast when paired with items like fresh fruit or low-fat milk.

It’s important to note that cereal serving sizes may vary between brands and types. Always check the nutrition facts panel for accurate information specific to each product.

By being aware of serving sizes and practicing portion control, individuals can better manage their calorie intake and maintain a balanced diet while enjoying their favorite cereals.

Cinnamon Chex in a Balanced Diet

Cinnamon Chex can be incorporated into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. This cereal provides whole grains, which are an important part of a nutritious eating plan.

A serving of Cinnamon Chex contains 150 calories, making it a relatively light breakfast or snack option. It can be paired with low-fat milk and fresh fruit for a more complete meal.

The cereal’s whole grain content contributes to daily fiber intake. Fiber is essential for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness.

While Cinnamon Chex offers some nutritional benefits, it’s important to be mindful of its sugar content. Balancing it with other nutrient-dense foods throughout the day is key.

For those following dietary guidelines, Cinnamon Chex can be part of a varied diet. It’s best to consider it alongside other food choices to ensure a well-rounded nutritional intake.

When incorporating Cinnamon Chex into meals, consider these options:

• Add fresh berries for extra vitamins
• Mix with plain yogurt for protein
• Use as a topping for a fruit and veggie smoothie bowl

Remember that portion control is crucial. Stick to the recommended serving size to maintain balance in your overall diet.

Comparison to Other Cereals

Cinnamon Chex offers a unique flavor profile among breakfast cereals. Its nutrition content differs from other popular options in several key areas.

Protein content in Cinnamon Chex is relatively low at 2 grams per serving. Many protein-enriched cereals provide significantly more, often 8-10 grams per serving.

Fiber is another area where Cinnamon Chex falls short. With only 2 grams per serving, it provides less fiber than many whole grain cereals.

Sugar content is a concern for Cinnamon Chex. It contains more added sugars than some alternatives like plain Cheerios.

Calorie-wise, Cinnamon Chex sits in the middle range. A one-cup serving provides 172 calories, which is comparable to many other cereals.

General Mills produces both Cinnamon Chex and Cheerios. Cheerios generally offer better nutritional value with lower calories, less sugar, and more fiber per serving.

Cinnamon Chex does stand out for being gluten-free. This makes it a good option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Vitamin and mineral fortification is common in cereals. Cinnamon Chex, like many others, is fortified with essential nutrients to boost its nutritional profile.

When choosing a cereal, consider personal dietary needs and preferences. Cinnamon Chex may be a tasty choice, but other options might offer better overall nutrition.