*Applicable for contiguous US only.

Since the early days of agriculture, cereals and grains have been an essential part of the human diet. Wheat, oats and rice are high in fiber and this fiber helps lower cholesterol levels. A diet full of cereals and grains can help reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity and even cancer. People who introduce whole grains (brown rice, oats, etc.) to their diets reduce the risk of heart disease by 25-36%. The risk of type-2 diabetes drops by 21-27% and the risk of stroke drops 37%. As you can see, a whole grain diet is essential for human health.

Blood sugar levels are a concern for many adults and oatmeal will serve to stabilize blood sugar levels. This is because the oats encourage slow digestion, and slow digestion equates to stable sugar levels. The American Diabetes Association recommends a fiber intake of 20-35 grams per day. One cup of oatmeal will provide about 4 grams of fiber.

Energy conservation is an important facet of emergency preparedness and cereals are the most economic source of energy available. This is why they work so well for long-term food storage. When used as a staple and in combination with other food groups, you can create an affordable food storage collection that will keep the body warm and energized.

With regard to vitamin content, whole cereals and grains are an important source of vitamin B. This is an essential vitamin that supports hormone and growth production, red blood cell formation and maintains a complete and healthy nervous system. Grains and cereals are also a good source of minerals, in particular phosphorous, zinc and calcium. Phosphorous is a mineral found present in brain tissue. Fruits and vegetables do not contain this mineral, so a diet rich in cereals and grains is essential for well balanced nutrition.