Ready Brek has been a go-to breakfast option for years, but how healthy is it really? I first tried it when my baby started eating solids, thinking the smooth texture and added nutrients like calcium and iron would be perfect. However, while it’s marketed as smoother than regular porridge, I found it wasn’t quite smooth enough for my little one, who wasn’t a fan of even the slightest firmness.
So, how does Ready Brek compare to oatmeal? Unlike oatmeal, which is made from 100% oats with no added nutrients, Ready Brek is fortified with vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, and vitamin D. It’s also pre-cooked and dried, giving it a finer, creamier texture than the chunkier oatmeal.
With that in mind, I decided to dig deeper into how Ready Brek stacks up against traditional porridge in terms of health.
Quick Answer:
Yes, Ready Brek can be a healthy breakfast choice. It’s made from wholegrain oats, fortified with essential vitamins and minerals like calcium and iron, and contains no added sugar in its Original flavour.
What’s Inside Ready Brek?
Ready Brek keeps its ingredient list straightforward, with wholegrain oats and wholegrain oat flour at its core. These provide key dietary benefits like fibre, protein, and B vitamins, making it a nutritious option to start your day.
What sets Ready Brek apart from traditional porridge is its added nutrients. It’s fortified with calcium, iron, and more B vitamins, giving it an extra nutritional boost. For instance, calcium helps keep your bones and teeth strong, while iron supports energy levels and reduces tiredness.
However, not all Ready Brek flavours are the same. The Chocolate version contains added sugar and chocolate, making it sweeter and less ideal if you’re aiming for a low-sugar breakfast. If you’re watching your sugar intake, stick to the Original flavour for a healthier choice.
Anything Else Worth Knowing?
Ready Brek’s smooth, creamy texture comes from being pre-cooked and dried. This makes it super quick to prepare and easy to eat, especially for kids or those who prefer a finer porridge.
To make it even more wholesome, try adding fresh fruit, nuts, or seeds to boost the natural fibre and nutrient content of your bowl.
Nutritional information for Ready Brek
Here’s a closer look at what you’re getting with a 30g serving of Ready Brek Original (before adding milk):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 112 kcal |
| Fat | 2.6g |
| – Saturated Fat | 0.4g |
| Carbohydrates | 17g |
| – Of which sugars | 0g |
| Protein | 3.6g |
| Fibre | 2.4g |
| Salt | Trace |
Vitamins and Minerals in Ready Brek (per 30g Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (per 30g) | With Milk | % of Recommended Intake |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.28mg | 0.30mg | 24% |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.36mg | 0.60mg | 26% |
| Niacin | 4.2mg | 4.0mg | 26% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.36mg | 0.50mg | 26% |
| Folic Acid | 51µg | 60µg | 13% |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.63µg | 1.2µg | 25% |
| Vitamin D | 1.3µg | 1.3µg | 26% |
| Calcium | 402mg | 582mg | 57% (30g) / 83% (with milk) |
| Iron | 3.6mg | 4mg | 41% (men 19-64) / 21% (women 19-50) |
Key Takeaways
- High Calcium Content: Provides 57% of the daily intake in just one serving, and this increases to 83% when prepared with milk.
- Good Source of Iron: Offers 3.6mg per serving, equating to 41% of the daily recommended intake for men aged 19-64, and 21% for women aged 19-50. This difference is due to higher iron needs in women of childbearing age.
- Rich in B Vitamins: Supports energy production and general well-being with Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, and B6.
- Vitamin D Boost: Enhances calcium absorption and supports bone health.
- No Added Sugar: The Original flavour is free of added sugar, making it a low-sugar choice for breakfast.
How Healthy is Ready Brek?
Ready Brek stands out as a healthy breakfast option for several reasons. It’s made with wholegrain oats, providing a natural source of fibre and essential nutrients like calcium, iron, and B vitamins. These additions make it more nutrient-dense than regular porridge, especially for those looking to boost their intake of key vitamins and minerals.
However, not all Ready Brek options are created equal. The Chocolate flavour, for example, contains added sugar, which can detract from its overall health benefits. If you’re watching your sugar intake, the Original variety is a better choice as it contains no added sugar or salt.
What Are Some Good Alternatives to Ready Brek?
If Ready Brek doesn’t quite fit your breakfast preferences or dietary needs, there are plenty of nutritious alternatives to consider. Here are some great options:
- Homemade Porridge:
Swap Ready Brek for rolled or steel-cut oats to create a more traditional porridge. These types of oats are less processed and provide a heartier texture. Boost the flavour and nutrition by adding:- Fresh or dried fruits for natural sweetness
- Nuts or seeds for healthy fats and protein
- Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a comforting twist
- Overnight Oats:
Prepare oats the night before by soaking them in milk or a dairy-free alternative. Add chia seeds, yoghurt, or a dollop of nut butter for extra protein and creaminess. - Whole Grain Toast with Toppings:
Whole grain toast paired with avocado, nut butter, or a poached egg makes a filling and nutrient-dense breakfast. Add some sliced tomatoes or spinach for an extra boost of vitamins. - Scrambled Eggs with Vegetables:
A protein-packed option, scrambled eggs paired with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peppers provide a nourishing start to your day. - Smoothies:
Blend fruits, spinach, Greek yoghurt, and a handful of oats or seeds for a quick, portable breakfast. This is a great way to include a variety of nutrients in one meal.
Why Consider Alternatives?
While Ready Brek is a healthy and convenient choice, alternatives like these allow for more variety and can cater to different dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for something heartier, less processed, or just a change in texture, these options can provide a balanced and satisfying start to your day.
FAQs about Ready Brek
Is Ready Brek good for weight loss?
Ready Brek can be a good choice for weight loss as it’s low in calories and rich in fibre and protein, which help keep you feeling full. It also provides essential nutrients like B vitamins that support energy metabolism.
However, be cautious with the Chocolate flavour due to its added sugar. For weight loss, opt for the Original version and pair it with fruits or nuts for extra fibre and nutrients. As with any weight-loss plan, a balanced diet and regular exercise are key to long-term success.
Can Ready Brek be eaten on a gluten-free diet?
Unfortunately, Ready Brek is not suitable for a gluten-free diet as it contains wholegrain oats and oat flour, which may have been processed in facilities that handle gluten-containing grains. If you’re gluten-sensitive or have coeliac disease, look for certified gluten-free oats or alternatives like buckwheat or quinoa porridge. Always check ingredient labels to ensure the product is safe for your dietary needs.
Does Ready Brek contain milk?
No, Ready Brek itself does not contain milk, making it a versatile option for those avoiding dairy. However, it’s commonly prepared with milk for added creaminess. If you’re on a dairy-free diet, you can use plant-based milk alternatives like almond, oat, or soy milk, or even water. Adding fresh fruits or nut butters can further enhance its flavour and nutritional value. Always double-check labels if you have specific dietary concerns.
Can Ready Brek cause constipation?
Ready Brek is a good source of fibre, which generally helps promote regular bowel movements and prevents constipation. However, consuming too much fibre without adequate hydration can have the opposite effect, potentially causing constipation, gas, or bloating.
That said, most people do not consume enough fibre daily, so it’s unlikely that Ready Brek alone will lead to these issues. If you’re experiencing persistent constipation, it’s important to evaluate your overall diet and water intake. Chronic symptoms should always be discussed with a healthcare provider for appropriate guidance.
Is Ready Brek healthy for babies?
Yes, Ready Brek can be a healthy option for babies, but it should only be introduced once your baby is around six months old and ready for solid foods. The NHS highlights it as a great source of iron, which is essential for their growth and development. Always prepare it with water or an appropriate milk alternative and avoid adding sugar or sweeteners.
Is Ready Brek or Weetabix better for babies?
Ready Brek is generally better for babies because it contains no added sugar, making it a healthier choice compared to Weetabix, which does have a small amount of added sugar. Babies don’t need any added sugar in their diet, as their nutritional needs are best met with natural and whole foods.
If you’re deciding between the two, Ready Brek’s lack of added sugar makes it an excellent option for fostering healthy eating habits early on. However, variety is important too, so offering both occasionally can provide different textures and flavours to support your baby’s growing palate. Always serve without adding sweeteners or extra sugar.
Is Ready Brek safe for pregnant women?
Ready Brek is a nutritious choice for pregnant women, providing important nutrients like calcium and iron that support both maternal health and baby development. However, those on a gluten-free diet should avoid it, as it contains wholegrain oats. Always consult with your healthcare provider to tailor your diet to your specific nutritional needs during pregnancy.
If gluten is a concern, consider alternatives like certified gluten-free porridge oats or porridge made from quinoa or buckwheat.
Can Ready Brek be eaten on a low FODMAP diet?
Ready Brek may not be suitable for those following a low FODMAP diet because it contains wholegrain oats, which can trigger digestive discomfort in some people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Oats are considered moderate FODMAP in larger servings, so portion size can also make a difference.
If you’re on a low FODMAP diet, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to explore suitable options. Alternatives like gluten-free porridge made from low FODMAP grains such as quinoa or buckwheat may be more appropriate. Always check the ingredients on packaged foods to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.
Can Ready Brek be eaten by those with diabetes?
Yes, those with diabetes can include Ready Brek as part of a balanced meal plan. The Original version, which contains no added sugar, is a better choice than the Chocolate flavour. Its wholegrain oats provide slow-releasing carbohydrates that can help maintain steady blood sugar levels.
That said, portion control is key to managing carbohydrate intake. If you have diabetes, it’s a good idea to pair Ready Brek with a protein-rich topping, like nuts or seeds, to further stabilise blood sugar levels.
Consult your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalised advice on incorporating Ready Brek and other carbohydrate-containing foods into your diabetes-friendly meal plan.
Is Ready Brek the Right Choice for You?
Ready Brek offers a convenient and nutrient-packed breakfast option, but whether it’s the right choice for you depends on your personal preferences and dietary needs. Its smooth texture and fortified nutrients make it appealing for many, including parents introducing solids to babies or individuals looking for a quick yet balanced start to the day.
However, nutrition isn’t one-size-fits-all. For some, a more traditional porridge with added fresh ingredients may be a better fit. Others might need alternatives due to dietary restrictions like gluten intolerance or specific health conditions.
At the end of the day, Ready Brek can be a valuable addition to a balanced diet, but like all processed foods, it’s best enjoyed alongside a variety of whole foods for optimal health. Explore what works for you and consider using Ready Brek as a base to build a more personalised, nutrient-rich breakfast.