The study also showed eating Cheerios as part of a reduced calorie diet lowers bad cholesterol twice as much in 12 weeks than a reduced calorie diet low in fat without Cheerios. In addition to the cholesterol-lowering benefits, the study found that eating Cheerios as part of a reduced calorie diet lowered weight by five pounds and shrank waists by three centimeters (1.2 inches) in 12 weeks, both of which can help reduce risk for heart disease.
According to the American Heart Association, an estimated 98.6 million adults in the United States have total blood cholesterol levels of 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), which is considered high risk since cholesterol plays a part in serious health problems including heart attack, stroke and heart disease.
Cheerios is made with 100 percent natural whole grain oats, which contribute to its cholesterol-lowering benefits. The whole grain oats in Cheerios contain soluble fiber that act as tiny sponges to soak up and help remove some cholesterol from the body.
Source: General Mills Inc.