cream of wheat is a type of heated cereal made from finely ground wheat. It is known for its smooth, creamy texture and is often eaten as a warm breakfast or snack. oatmeal, on the other hand, is made from whole oats and is generally served as a hot breakfast cereal. It is typically fluffier and less dense than cream of wheat.
nutrition differences: oatmeal tends to have more fiber, vitamins, and minerals than cream of wheat due to its whole grain composition. cream of wheat, being a processed food, has fewer nutrients by comparison. despite this, both foods are generally considered healthy choices and provide a mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.
calories and macronutrients: one cup of rolled oats (which is more dense than cream of wheat) contains around 166 calories, 3.56 grams of fat, 27 grams of carbohydrates, 4 grams of protein, and 9% of the daily recommended value for iron. In contrast, one cup of cream of wheat (with 234 grams of water) provides about 110 calories, 0.53 grams of fat, 23 grams of carbohydrates, 3 grams of protein, and 1 gram of fiber. these numbers indicate that cream of wheat has slightly fewer calories and fewer grams of fat and protein per serving than oatmeal.
fiber content: oatmeal is particularly high in fiber, containing 3.98 grams per serving, which contributes to its feeling of fullness and can aid in weight loss. cream of wheat has slightly less fiber, with 1.45 grams per serving. while this amount of fiber still contributes to a healthy diet, it may not have the same satiating effect as the higher fiber content of oatmeal.
iron content: oatmeal contains about 2.11 milligrams of iron per serving, which is slightly above the daily recommended value of 8 milligrams for women, and 18 milligrams for men. cream of wheat has more iron, with 12 milligrams per serving, which is above the daily recommended value for women and slightly above the recommended value for men. these iron contents are generally considered adequate for most individuals.
cardiovascular health: oatmeal is rich in beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that has been shown to lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health when incorporated into a balanced diet. cream of wheat does not contain beta-glucan, but it is still considered a healthy food option due to its high fiber content.
In summary, cream of wheat and oatmeal are both nutritious choices that can be part of a balanced diet. oatmeal offers fiber, vitamins, and minerals not found in cream of wheat, while cream of wheat provides a more concentrated source of iron. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preferences and dietary goals.
