23 Jun 2010 --- Nearly 50 percent of adults are looking for ways to get Omega-3s into their diets. Now, getting this nutrient is as simple as enjoying a bowl of cereal. General Mills is introducing Total Plus Omega-3s cereal, which offers all the nutrition of Total, plus the benefit of Omega-3 ALA.

Total Plus Omega-3s has 100 percent Daily Value of 12 essential vitamins and minerals, and also delivers 10 percent of the Daily Value of Omega-3 ALA (160 milligrams) per serving, in a delicious combination of crunchy whole grain flakes, flax clusters and honey-sweetened almonds. The Omega-3 ALA in the cereal is sourced naturally from ground flax.

“With the new Total Plus Omega-3s cereal, health-conscious Americans who have long trusted Total to deliver superior nutrition can also reap the benefits of Omega-3 ALA from flax,” said Dan Stangler, marketing manager for Total cereal.

Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in helping to maintain a healthy body. Omega-3 ALA is an essential nutrient that cannot be produced within the body. It must be received through food, so Total Plus Omega-3s is a tasty solution for getting this nutrient.

“A diet rich in Omega-3s can help support overall health, and Total Plus Omega-3s provides a good source of Omega-3 ALA naturally from flax,” said Kristin Harris, senior scientist of General Mill’s Bell Institute of Health and Nutrition. “With 10 percent of the Daily Value of Omega-3 ALA and 100 percent of 12 essential vitamins and minerals per serving, a morning bowl of this new cereal is a healthy way to start the day.”

In addition, Total Plus Omega-3s cereal provides at least 16 grams of whole grain in every serving (at least 48 grams recommended daily), and no leading cereal offers more calcium and vitamin D, which can support bone health.