Pita bread is a convenient snack food that's a good alternative to traditional bread. Whether you're making or buying it, know that some varieties are healthier than others. Specifically, pita bread that is made with 100 percent whole wheat flour has more fiber, protein and other essential nutrients than bread made with refined flour.
Nutrition Facts
The U.S. Department of Agriculture defines a large pita bread as being about 6 1/2 inches in diameter, with a weight of about 60 g. A white pita has approximately 165 calories, 5.5 g protein, 1 g fat, 33.5 g carbohydrates and 1.5 g dietary fiber. However, a large whole wheat pita has about 170 calories, 6 g protein, 1.5 g fat, 35 g carbohydrates and 4.5 g dietary fiber.
Whole Grain Advantages
Eating whole grain products such as whole wheat pita bread offers a number of advantages over eating refined grain products. Perhaps the most prominent is the greater amount of dietary fiber, which can reduce risks of constipation, heart disease and high blood pressure; encourage lasting feelings of satiation and aid successful weight management or weight loss. Nutritionally, whole grains are also richer sources of folate, magnesium, selenium and B vitamins. In addition, the Whole Grains Council notes that whole grains reduce risks of stroke and type 2 diabetes.
Pitas At Home
Pita bread isn't hard to make at home, and preparing it yourself can be far more affordable than buying it in packages. Mix yeast, honey and water together in a bowl and let the ingredients sit for about 5 minutes or until they become foamy. In another bowl, whisk bread flour with whole wheat flour. Add in the yeast mixture, the rest of the water, the oil and the salt, and stir together to form a dough. Knead the dough with your hands, then let the dough ball rise, covered. Cut the risen dough into eight pieces, shape each piece into a ball and roll the balls out. Bake the pitas at 500 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes.
Considerations
Although it is certainly healthier to make pita bread with all whole wheat flour instead of just a portion, your bread may not rise as well or develop as fluffy of a texture if you do so. If you're trying to pick out healthy bread at the store, always check ingredient labels and nutrition facts. Seek out a pita bread that has "whole grain" or "whole wheat" as its first ingredient for the biggest health benefits.
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