Top 10 Healthiest Breads With The Most Protein, Carbs, And Fiber

Is your happiness a freshly baked bread? Hmmm…then let’s look for options for the healthiest bread with the most protein, carbs, and fiber.

Hundreds of different kinds of bread can be found on store shelves and in recipes, with some being healthier than others. Some are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, whereas others are manufactured from refined grains and are nutritionally deficient.

So how do you choose the healthy one? Bread like wheat bread, sourdough bread, and rye bread are made with whole grains and not refined and processed grains. Therefore, they are considered good choices due to the higher amount of nutrients in them.

Well if you feel that the choice is tough, let’s look at our Top 10 Healthiest Bread With The Most Protein, Carbs, And Fiber that you can consider having every day!

Is bread actually healthy?

Not all bread is made the same. Bread’s principal component is carbohydrates. Carbohydrates provide energy to the body. Carbohydrates are found in the most healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and minimally processed grains. Vitamins, minerals, fibers, and antioxidants are all included in these foods.

A highly processed, simple carbohydrate is used to manufacture packaged and sliced white bread. It’s quick and easy to digest, but it’s not very nutritious. We need complex carbs for adequate nutrition.

What happens when you continue eating simple carbs? Blood sugar levels climb quickly after eating foods prepared from highly processed carbohydrates. Blood sugar fluctuations frequently can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes.

Processed carbohydrates lack fiber. After consuming them, you will not feel satisfied. You’ll start craving food again shortly after, especially if your blood sugar levels dip. Hence, bread manufactured with simple carbs is considered to be an unhealthy option against those with complex carbs.

Top 10 healthiest slices of bread with the most nutrients

Some bread are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, whereas others are manufactured from refined grains and are nutritionally deficient.

Obviously, you may be curious as to which type of bread is the healthiest. Here are the ten healthiest bread to choose from.

Whole wheat bread

Whole grains contain the germ, endosperm, and bran. The fiber content of the bran, which is the hard outermost layer, is great [1]. Protein, fat, vitamins, minerals, and important plant components are also found in the bran and germ, but the endosperm is primarily starch [2].

That’s why whole grains, such as whole wheat, have more fiber and are regarded as more nutritious than refined grains, which have had the bran and germ removed.

Whole grain bread

We need to understand the concept that ‘Whole wheat bread’ is different from ‘Whole grain bread’. The type of grain used is the key distinction between whole grain and whole wheat. All three components of a grain kernel, also known as a caryopsis, can be found in whole grain as well as whole wheat products.

The term “whole wheat” refers to products that employ the entire wheat kernel in their manufacturing process. Whole wheat bread, for example, would only comprise whole wheat flour, which is made from the entire wheat kernel.

When other grains, such as quinoa, barley, corn, millet, oatmeal, rice, rye, sorghum, pearl millet, triticale, and even wheat, are added to the product, whole grain is employed. The complete kernels of these grains are utilized in every case.

Rye bread

In a research published by Lund University in Sweden, mice were fed whole grain diets based on wheat or rye for 22 weeks. Whole-grain rye reduced body weight in rats, improved insulin sensitivity slightly, and reduced total cholesterol [3]

According to studies published in Nutrition Journal, individuals who started eating rye bread for breakfast (with three different levels of rye bran; the biggest amount of bran) have far less hunger and desire to eat eight hours later than people consuming wheat bread [4].

Hence Rye Bread is known to be sturdy and hearty enough to stand up to all of your favorite sandwich fillings and spreads.

Oat bread

Oats have long been recognized as one of the healthiest carbohydrate sources. They digest slowly and make you feel full and satisfied. It’s because they’re high in beta-glucan, a cholesterol-lowering fiber that’s also been linked to a lower risk of diseases like colon cancer, diabetes, digestive issues, and heart disease [5]

Oats are significantly higher in protein than wheat (about twice as much), which is obviously beneficial if you’re seeking to strengthen and rebuild muscles; they also contain a variety of vitamins and nutrients, including vitamin E and iron, and calcium. Whole grain oat groats, steel-cut oats, and thick oats are all common forms found in oat bread.

Ezekiel bread

A popular bread in the healthy world, but what is it? People often refer to it as the healthiest bread or a high fiber bread. If you’ve never heard of it, no worries! Let’s find out about it together.

Since it’s made with wheat, barley, beans, lentils, millet, and spelt, Ezekiel bread is an excellent choice for vegetarians. When these six grains and legumes are sprouted and blended, they form a complete protein that is equivalent to milk and eggs. It’s also high-quality, with all nine essential amino acids included (and 18 total). 

Furthermore, sprouted grains are more readily tolerated by individuals with grain protein sensitivities, and may aid in the prevention of diabetes, fatty liver disease, and heart disease.

Flaxseed bread

Flax bread is among the healthiest bread available, as it is prepared mostly from whole-grain flour and flax seeds. This is because flax seeds are extremely nutritious and provide numerous health benefits. They’re particularly high in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid present in plant foods [6].

According to one research of 6,000 postmenopausal women, those who ate flax seeds regularly had an 18% lower risk of developing breast cancer than those who did not [7].

Intriguingly, those who ate flax bread had a 23 percent lower risk of breast cancer than those who didn’t [7]. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that this was an observational study. To fully comprehend the link between flax seeds and cancer risk, more research is required.

Multigrain bread

Multigrain and whole-grain bread differ from whole wheat and whole-grain bread in the same way that whole wheat and whole grain bread do. To manufacture a whole grain bread or product, all portions of the grain kernel, i.e., bran, germ, and endosperm are incorporated. Multigrain refers to a food that contains more than one type of grain, albeit they may not all be whole grains, such as 7 or 12-grain bread.

Sprouted grain bread

Sprouted bread is prepared with whole grains that have sprouted with heat and moisture treatment. It’s been proven that sprouting increases the amount and availability of specific nutrients.

According to one study, pita bread produced with 50% sprouted wheat flour contained more than three times the amount of folate, a vitamin essential for converting food into energy, as pita bread made without sprouted wheat flour [8].

Gluten-free bread

Gluten-free bread is those that are produced without gluten-containing grains such as wheat, rye, or barley. They are safe alternatives for those who must avoid gluten, such as those who have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

While the actual ingredients in gluten-free bread vary depending on the variety, they are usually created with a combination of gluten-free flours including brown rice, almond, coconut, tapioca, potato, or corn flours.

Many individuals mistakenly believe that gluten-free bread is healthier than gluten-containing bread. Most gluten-free variants, on the other hand, are manufactured with refined flours and are high in added sugars and other needless ingredients. Hence, choosing wisely or preparing your own gluten-free bread at home can be a better option!

Sourdough

Sourdough bread is produced using a fermentation technique that relies on naturally existing yeast and bacteria to rise [9]. Fermentation aids in the reduction of phytates (also known as phytic acid), which bind to minerals and prevent their absorption.

In one study, sourdough fermentation reduced phytate concentration by more than half when compared to ordinary yeast [10]. Because of the prebiotics and probiotics released during the fermentation process, sourdough may be simpler to digest than other bread.

Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that feed probiotic microorganisms. Probiotics are good bacteria found in your body and in certain foods. Getting enough of each of these nutrients is beneficial to gut health and digestion.

Which bread is good for weight loss?

Yes, eating bread to lose weight is advisable. Choose a nutritious bread and consume it in moderation.

Despite the fact that there are numerous breakfast options, most people prefer bread over anything else because it saves them time and tastes good. Bread is a staple in many people’s diets, and there are numerous varieties available, including white, brown, and multigrain.

Is bread a love/hate relationship for you? Many traditional diets include it, and it’s also a good source of calories. So, is bread safe to eat, or is the notion that bread is healthy for mankind flawed? What you should know is as follows.

Barley, buckwheat, oats, corn, wheat, millet, and flaxseeds are all used in multi-grain bread. It’s high in fiber and other beneficial nutrients. It’s good for weight loss because of all of this. It makes you feel satiated for longer, preventing binge eating.

If you’re trying to lose weight, go for multigrain or brown bread, it is considered the healthiest store-bought bread. For weight watchers and diabetics, white bread should be avoided at all costs.

How to choose healthy bread?

Look for companies that include the following ingredients when choosing healthy bread:

  • The primary ingredient is 100% whole-grain or sprouted flour, with only a few other ingredients.
  • Per slice, there are 3-5 g of fiber and 3-6 g of protein.
  • There are no additional sweeteners.

Making your own bread is one of the finest ways to ensure that you’re eating healthy bread. You’ll have more control over the materials this way. Hundreds of homemade bread recipes are accessible online to meet almost every dietary requirement.

While the variety of bread on this list is healthier than others, bread is not as nutritious as other entire foods. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds, as well as whole grains that haven’t been milled into flour, usually offer more fiber and nutrients than bread.

Furthermore, many loaves of bread include additional sugars and omega-6-rich vegetable oils, such as soybean oil. Excessive use of these chemicals has been related to chronic inflammation, which can lead to diseases such as heart disease.

Healthiest bread recipe by Keevs

If you like bread but don’t like the bloat, this recipe is perfect for you.

  1. Time to Prepare: 3 hours and 40 minutes
  2. Time to cook: 34 minutes
  3. Total time: 4 hours and 15 minutes 
  4. Yield: 1 loaf of bread

Ingredients

  1. rolled oats or 1/2 cup (60g) dry multigrain cereal combination (see note)
  2. 1 and 3/4 cup boiling water 
  3. 2 and 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast (instant or active) (1 standard packet)
  4. 3 tbsp (37 g) light or dark brown sugar packed
  5. 3 tbsp unsalted butter (45 g), melted to room temperature
  6. a teaspoon and a half of salt
  7. 3 1/3 cups (433g) bread flour, plus more as needed and as needed for hands/work surface 1/2 cup (60g) sunflower seeds, walnuts/pecans, pepitas, raisins, dried cranberries (raw and unsalted nuts/seeds are recommended)

Recipe

  1. Prepare the dough as follows: In a large heatproof bowl, combine the cereal and milk (you can also use the bowl of your stand mixer). On top of that, pour boiling water. Allow the mixture to cool to around 110°F (43°C) on a digital thermometer. It normally takes 20 minutes to complete this task. Keep an eye on the temperature; if it gets too hot, the yeast will expire. It’s not a problem if it gets too cold; the dough will just take a few minutes longer to rise.
  2. In the bowl of your bread maker fitted with a dough hook or paddle attachment, whisk together the yeast, sugar, and all of the warm water/cereal mixture. Cover and set aside for 5-10 minutes, or until the surface is frothy and bubbly.
  3. Add butter and salt. Mix well together.
  4. Continue to beat the dough in the mixer (or transfer to the dough hook if you use the paddle) for another 2 minutes or knead the dough by hand for 2 minutes on a lightly floured surface.
  5. Now shape the bread. Bake for 35-40 minutes, loosely tent the pan with aluminum foil if the top browns too quickly during the baking time.
  6. Remove the bread from the oven and set it aside for a few minutes to cool before slicing and serving. It’s also okay to leave it to cool completely before slicing.

FAQs

Which bread is highest in protein?

High-protein does not imply low-carbohydrate. Protein bread is simply bread with high-protein components added to it. For its high protein content and high dietary fiber content, rye bread is regarded as healthier than most other bread. 

Does toasting bread eliminate the carbs?

Toasting bread has little effect on its nutritional content, however, it does lower the glycemic index. The calories in toasted bread are the same as those in untoasted bread. Toasting has no effect on carbohydrates or gluten; nevertheless, it may reduce the glycemic index of bread, which is a benefit.

Is multigrain bread fattening?

Whole grain multigrain bread is the healthiest. All three components of a grain kernel, also known as a caryopsis, can be found in whole grain as well as whole wheat products. Whole grains in multigrain bread help reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, stroke, and diabetes. 

Wrapping up

Some types of bread are better for you than others. Look for bread made entirely of whole grains and/or sprouted grains to get the most health benefits. Make sure there are no additional sweeteners or vegetable oils in your bread. Sourdough, rye, flax, and oat bread are all great choices.

Whatever option you choose, keep in mind that bread should be consumed in moderation as part of a well-balanced diet that includes a range of nutritious whole foods.

References

  1. Slavin, Joanne. “Why whole grains are protective: biological mechanisms.” The Proceedings of the Nutrition Society vol. 62,1 (2003): 129-34.
  2. Ye, Eva Qing et al. “Greater whole-grain intake is associated with lower risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and weight gain.” The Journal of nutrition vol. 142,7 (2012): 1304-13.
  3. Andersson, Ulrika et al. “Metabolic effects of whole-grain wheat and whole grain rye in the C57BL/6J mouse.” Nutrition (Burbank, Los Angeles County, Calif.) vol. 26,2 (2010): 230-9.
  4. Isaksson, Hanna et al. “Effect of rye bread breakfasts on subjective hunger and satiety: a randomized controlled trial.” Nutrition journal, (2009), vol. 8 39.
  5. Whitehead, Anne et al. “Cholesterol-lowering effects of oat β-glucan: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.” The American journal of clinical nutrition vol. 100,6 (2014): 1413-21.
  6. Goyal, Ankit et al. “Flax and flaxseed oil: an ancient medicine & modern functional food.” Journal of food science and technology vol. 51,9 (2014): 1633-53.
  7. Lowcock, Elizabeth C et al. “Consumption of flaxseed, a rich source of lignans, is associated with reduced breast cancer risk.” Cancer causes & control : CCC vol. 24,4 (2013): 813-6.
  8. Hefni, Mohammed, and Cornelia M Witthöft. “Enhancement of the folate content in Egyptian pita bread.” Food & nutrition research vol. 56 (2012): 10.3402/fnr.v56i0.5566. 
  9. Poutanen, Kaisa et al. “Sourdough and cereal fermentation in a nutritional perspective.” Food microbiology vol. 26,7 (2009): 693-9.
  10. Lopez, H W et al. “Prolonged fermentation of whole wheat sourdough reduces phytate level and increases soluble magnesium.” Journal of agricultural and food chemistry vol. 49,5 (2001): 2657-62.
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