Understanding Bread: Finding The Healthiest Options
When you are running to the store to buy a loaf of bread, you might notice that there are all sorts of organic breads available and these options can seem overwhelming. Should you buy whole bread or multigrain bread? Which bread will pair the best with your balanced meals? Luckily, this decision doesn't have to be difficult to make.
Understanding Whole Wheat Bread
Whole wheat bread is one of the healthiest bread options you can choose. However, be careful. Breads that are labeled as "wheat bread" are not the same as whole wheat. To determine if it is whole wheat bread, look for a stamp from the Whole Grains Council.
When bread is "whole," this refers to how the bread hasn't been processed and still contains the most nutritious parts of the grains: the endosperm, bran and germ. These parts of the bread come with important nutrients.
Beware of Multigrain Bread
Multigrain bread is not necessarily as healthy is it might seem. While the bread comes from multiple grains, if it is not whole, these grains may still be processed.
What to Look For in Bread
Look for bread that comes with at least two grams of fiber. These options will be better for your digestive system. Try to avoid bread that has had more than a teaspoon of sugar added. Also, choose bread that contains a lot of protein.
When You Should Choose Gluten-Free Bread
If you have a difficult time tolerating gluten, look for gluten-free bread. However, most individuals can actually tolerate gluten. Schedule an appointment with your doctor or a nutritionist to make sure that you cannot consume gluten.
Fresh Vs. Organic Bread
Make sure to also distinguish between fresh and organic bread. Fresh bread simply refers to bread that was never frozen, salted or preserved. Since this is almost never done to bread anyway, any bread that is labeled "fresh" should not be seen as anything special.
If your bread is labeled as organic, this means that it was not produced using genetic engineering. It is produced using a national list of allowed substances. It must also be certified by the USDA National Organic Program.
In addition to being better for you, unprocessed breads often come with a texture that is different, and often more pleasant, than processed breads. Unprocessed bread comes with a lot more flavor, so if this is the type of bread you prefer, make sure to check the label.