Whole-grain bread has made a comeback since the onset of the obesity epidemic, because of its healthful qualities. Whole-grain bread is far superior to refined breads when it comes to nutritional value and satiating quality. Some people prefer the taste of whole-grain bread over refined white bread.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are your body's main source of energy. Whole grain bread is rich in carbohydrates. The carbohydrates found in whole grain bread are slowly absorbed into the bloodstream, so it doesn't cause a rapid spike in blood sugar. Refined carbohydrates, like those found in white bread and sweets, can lead to a surge in blood glucose levels causing your pancreas to work overtime producing insulin. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends that half of your daily grain intake should be whole grains, so whole-grain bread is a good choice to fulfill this requirement.
Fiber
Fiber is an important part of your diet because it helps keep your colon clean, stabilizes blood glucose levels, keeps cholesterol levels low and helps you maintain regularity. Fiber is a carbohydrate your body cannot absorb, so although the grams of fiber are included in the total calorie count of your food, you actually don't absorb the calories from fiber.
Micronutrients
Whole grain bread is rich in several B vitamins and minerals, such as selenium, magnesium and potassium, which play important roles in millions of biochemical processes in your body, including energy metabolism, muscle contraction and relaxation and tissue repair. Refined carbohydrates lose most of these nutrients during the refining process.
Satiety
Whole-grain breads are more satiating than refined white breads because they contain more fiber, fat and protein. Refined breads often have a lower calorie count, but because of their impact on blood glucose levels, you may end up feeling hungry sooner than you would after eating a whole grain, plus the insulin released by your pancreas in response to the blood sugar surge results in a greater amount of stored fat.
Member Comments