Bread is a baked food that is made of flour or other grains mixed with water and other ingredients. It may contain leavening agents or fats. It can be flavored with herbs and spices. Bread can be stored for a long time in the refrigerator.
The best types of bread provide fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals. It also contains carbohydrates, which are the body’s main fuel source.
Wholemeal
Whole grain bread has a toothsome texture and a nutty taste, and is richer in nutrients than white bread. This includes dietary fibre, protein, minerals and vitamins, which are all important for good health. It also helps to reduce your risk of heart disease, bowel cancer and high blood pressure.
This type of bread is made from flour milled from whole wheat grains. It is more nutritious than refined flour, as it contains the bran and germ of the grain (which are stripped from refined flour), and has a higher level of fibre, vitamin and mineral content.
When buying bread, look for the words “whole grain” or “wholemeal” on the ingredient list. This indicates that the bread is made from a whole grain, which can be either wheat or another type of grain such as rye. The word “whole” refers to the entire grain kernel, which is much more nutritious than refined flour. It also helps to lower your glycaemic index and provides long-lasting energy.
White
If you’re a fan of a crunchy crust and a light center, this bread is for you. The recipe is easy to follow and takes just a few hours from start to finish, including the time it takes for the dough to proof.
Yeast is activated in warm water and sugar, which helps the dough rise. The dough is then stirred with lard and salt. Add flour a little at a time, stirring well between each addition. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rest for about an hour.
When comparing wheat and white bread, it’s important to keep in mind that the grain kernels used for both have three nutrient-dense parts: the fiber-rich bran, the germ, and the starchy endosperm. Whole wheat bread contains the entire grain, while refined white flour uses only the endosperm. In addition, white bread is typically enriched with vitamins and minerals, but it has less of the heart-healthy fiber found in whole wheat.
Gluten-free
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. It gives bread its elastic, spongy texture and helps it to hold together. If you suffer from gluten intolerance or coeliac disease, eliminating gluten from your diet can help to alleviate discomforting symptoms. However, you don’t have to cut out bread completely, as experts are finding ways to make delicious gluten free alternatives.
When choosing gluten free bread, look for ingredients that are low in sodium and sugar, and high in fiber and nutrients. Some gluten-free products are made with sorghum bran, which contains a rich source of vitamin C.
Several brands of gluten free bread are available from online stores and supermarkets nationwide. One option is Happy Campers, a bakery-fresh bread mix that can be prepared with eggs, water and butter or oil. It is GFCO certified, preservative-free and dairy-free. It also contains no added sugar. It is also made with organic ingredients and sourced locally when possible.
Diabetes-friendly
A person with diabetes needs to carefully watch their carbohydrate intake, as it can have a major impact on blood sugar levels. They often have to alter their diet significantly to stay healthy and manage the condition. They may need to avoid bread altogether or choose a low-carb version with a higher fibre content.
Diabetes-friendly bread can be made by adding ingredients that have a lower glycemic index, such as wheat bran, oats, chia seeds, or avocado. The choice of spreads is also important, as they can affect the GI score of a sandwich. Opting for unsalted butter or unsweetened peanut butter will help keep the calorie count down.
People with diabetes should check the nutrition facts on a bread’s label to understand its nutritional value. They should also test their blood sugar before and after eating the bread to see how it affects their body. This information will allow them to make the best choices for their meals.
