Since time immemorial, bread has been counted amongst the staple foods of the world. Its universal acceptance as an important part of our diet is down to its simplicity and versatility. Bread in India and other parts of the world is equally popular as a lunch or dinner option as it is a breakfast and supper accompaniment.
There is the occasional murmur against bread being an unhealthy option. However, contrary to belief, eating bread of any variety is not at all harmful for you. In fact, the nutritional quality of bread cannot be understated. With many different types of bread having sprung up in the country, thanks to pioneers like Modern Foods, consumers don’t have a lack of healthy bread options. Bread such as Oats & Flax Bread and 100% Whole Wheat Bread from Modern Foods consist of special nutrients that help in providing you with an enriched and balanced diet.
But what exactly does bread consist of? It is considered to be a great source of nutrition thanks to its grains content. These whole grains are rich in energy-supplying carbohydrates, along with other nutrients like iron, magnesium, B vitamins, selenium, and dietary fibre. Let’s take a look at all the major nutrients present in bread, along with their benefits:
Carbohydrates and Energy:
Carbohydrates are present in bread in the form of sugars, starches and fibres. Even though bread is relatively low in calories, it is a good source of carbs. Carbs provide the body with glucose which is used to provide energy to the body. While white bread and sandwich bread has refined carbohydrates, whole wheat and multi-grain bread consists of healthier carbs
Calcium:
White bread consists of a good amount of calcium – in fact, eating just 4 medium slices everyday will supplement you with 30% of recommended daily calcium intake. This nutrient is essential for the body to maintain healthy teeth and bones, and is extremely important for growing children.
Iron:
Iron is another main constituent of fortified white bread. As we all know, iron is good for the blood as it is used to transport oxygen around the body. Iron helps in keeping the immune system healthy, while also improving energy and concentration levels.
Protein:
For the calorie-conscious and fitness freak, regulating the amount of fat consumed is important. In this aspect, bread is one of the best sources of low fat protein which is essential for growth and healing of body muscles and tissues.
Fibre:
Bread varieties such as whole wheat bread are great sources of dietary fibre which helps in regulating blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Fibre is also great for the digestive system.
Folate:
Folate is a critical component for healthy creation of red blood cells. This constituent is found in abundance in flour, wheat, and, consequently, bread.
Sugar:
While bread is considered to be sweet, it doesn’t have very high sugar levels. Sugar is important for providing the body with energy as well as dental health and controlling weight issues.
Vitamins and Minerals:
Vitamin B group constituents such as thiamine, niacin and folic acid are present in bread along with other vitamins and minerals. These help in converting food into energy and allowing people to maintain healthy skin, eyes and nails.
As one can see, bread is very close to being a complete food with its gamut of nutrients. Incorporating the best bread types in your diet will allow you to enjoy the numerous benefits this food has to offer.