Bread is a staple in many diets worldwide, but not all types of bread are good for your health. Some breads are loaded with refined grains, added sugars, and unhealthy preservatives, which can contribute to weight gain, blood sugar spikes, and other health concerns. On the other hand, there are healthier bread options made from whole grains and nutrient-dense ingredients that can provide essential fiber and vitamins.
Health expert Kyle Fitzgerald, a clean eating advocate, recently analyzed the best and worst breads, categorizing them as “bad,” “better,” and “best” options available at the grocery store. Read on to get all his insights!
Worst: Ultra-Processed White Bread
Ultra-processed white bread is made from refined flour, which has been stripped of its fiber, vitamins, and minerals during processing. This leaves it with little nutritional value compared to whole grain or less-processed bread.
Fitzgerald labels this as one of the worst options because “it contains refined wheat flour, which is stripped of all the vitamins and minerals. Plus, there’s seed oil in here and a little bit of added sugar.”
Bread should be made with simple, clean ingredients as a general rule.
Better: Dave’s Killer Bread
The reason Fitzgerald names this as one of the best bread options is because “this uses whole wheat flour, which is going to have all those nutrients and fiber.” What’s even better is there are no seed oils in this bread.
Although this is a good option, Fitzgerald suggests there's an even better choice.
Best: Sprouted Bread
Sprouting grains enhances nutrient content and increases the level of vitamins, such as B vitamins and vitamin C. It also contains minerals like iron and magnesium, making them more bioavailable.
“This is going to be easier to digest, and it's easier to absorb the nutrients in here,” he notes.
