How to Buy Healthy Muffins

Muffins make a great breakfast item. However, many muffins are high in fat and calories and low in nutrition. If you love muffins and want to keep them on your menu while improving your overall health, then you need to learn how to spot healthy muffins.

Instructions

1. Look for whole grain muffins by reading the ingredients list on the back of the package. The healthiest muffins will have whole grains listed as the first ingredient. Don't rely on the fact that "whole grain" is on the front of the package, as not all whole grain muffins are created equal.

2. Monitor the fat content in the muffins you buy. First you want to make sure your muffin has 3 grams of fat or less per serving. Next you will want to make sure the types of fats found in your muffin are healthy. Look for omega-3 fatty acids and unsaturated fats. Avoid muffins that have hydrogenated fats and trans fats.

3. Examine the portion size of the muffin. While a muffin may be low in fat and contain whole grains, you still need to monitor your portions. Look at the calorie count to gage the portion size for the muffins that you buy. If you have troubles controlling your portion sizes, buy muffins that are already packaged as an individual serving size.

4. Buy muffins that are high in dietary fiber. These muffins will fill you up faster, make you feel fuller longer and will help you to stay healthy. High fiber muffins can even help you lower your cholesterol. Look for muffins that have at least 3 to 5 grams of dietary fiber per serving.