Hot cereal is trendier than ever – and not just oats. Grains like bulgur, kamut, rye, and barley are appearing on more and more breakfast tables these days. Even five-star restaurants are creating flavorful twists on the traditional bowl of oatmeal. According to a survey of 500 registered dietitians (RDs) published in Today’s Dietitian magazine, nearly half said oatmeal was their favorite breakfast. Those surveyed that their morning oatmeal helps to keep them focused and feeling full all morning.

If you’re trying to lead a healthier lifestyle, consider adding a warm bowl of cereal breakfast to your list. A well-balanced bowl should contain the following per serving (serving sizer varies by brand):

• Whole Grains. Whole grains provide important nutrients including magnesium, selenium, copper, manganese, vitamin E, as well as compounds called phenolic acids. Studies indicate that phenolic acids may help guard against heart disease and certain cancers. Not all hot cereals have whole grain. Oatmeal (regular, instant, steel cut, and any other kind), cream of rye and Wheatena are whole grain, but cream of wheat and cream of rice are not.
• No more than 200 calories
• No more than 1g sat fat
• 8 grams (2 tsp) or less of sugar
• 3 or more grams of fiber
• 4 or more grams of protein
• No more than 100mg sodium

Here are five bowls that make the cut.

Quaker Steel Cut Oats – Quick 3 Minute
Get your morning off to the right start with the hearty texture and rich, nutty flavor of steel cut oats. Quaker Quick 3-Minute Oats cooks in just 3 minutes. They’re delicious with a drizzle of maple syrup, a splash of milk, or topped with fruit.
Per 1/3 cup dry: 170 Calories, 3g fat (0.5g sat fat), 31g carbs, 1g sugar, 4g fiber, 6g protein, 0mg Sodium

Arrowhead Mills Organic Bulgur Wheat
This classic cereal provides a hot, steamy and delicious breakfast, made with organically grown whole wheat.
Per 1/4 cup dry: 150 calories, 0.5 g fat (0 g sat fat), 34 g carbs, 0g sugar, 4g fiber, 5g protein, 0mg Sodium

Kashi Pilaf Original
Tasty and nutritious, Kashi Pilaf is a hearty foundation for any meal. The 7 Whole Grains Pilaf has 6g protein, 5g fiber and 44g of whole grains to fill you up the right way.
Per 1/4 cup dry: 170 Calories, 0g fat (0g sat fat), 32g carbs, 0g sugar, 5g fiber, 6g protein, 0mg Sodium

Quaker Instant Oatmeal – Original
No matter where or how busy you are, you can have a wholesome bowl of oatmeal. These easy to carry single-serving packets that cook in only 90 seconds. They’re ideal to pair with fruit, nuts or a swirl of honey.
Per packet: 100 Calories, 2g fat (0g sat fat), 19g carbs, 0g sugar, 3g fiber, 4g protein, 75mg Sodium

Bob’s Red Mill Organic Whole Grain Kamut
An ancient type of wheat known as khorasan wheat, kamut has a rich, buttery flavor. Its natural sweetness makes this whole grain cereal a great choice for breakfast. Try with dried and fresh fruits, nuts, milk or maple syrup.
Per 1/4 cup dry: 120 Calories, 0g fat (0g sat fat), 26g carbs, 0g sugar, 4g fiber, 5g protein, 0mg Sodium