How to Choose the Best Bread


When did selecting a simple loaf of bread become so … un-simple? We help you narrow down your choices so you can select the best bread to eat for you.


BY VICKI MARTINEZ

 
 

Decisions, decisions. As you walk down the bread aisle, the selection is incredible. And each loaf claims to be the healthiest choice. Let’s break down bread benefits (the healthy ones) of four types you can know you’re choosing the best bread for you.

 

whole wheat bread

Whole Wheat Bread


A whole food is one that's complete, the way nature intended. Bread made with whole wheat is packed with nutrients—vitamins, essential macronutrients and minerals, such as calcium, iron and potassium. One slice (38 grams) of whole wheat bread contains 4 grams of protein and 2 grams of cholesterol-lowering, blood pressure-improving fiber.

bread tip

Look for bread labeled 100% whole wheat on the package to ensure you’re getting the full dose of nutritional benefits.

whole wheat bread

Whole Wheat Bread


A whole food is one that's complete, the way nature intended. Bread made with whole wheat is packed with nutrients—vitamins, essential macronutrients and minerals, such as calcium, iron and potassium. One slice (38 grams) of whole wheat bread contains 4 grams of protein and 2 grams of cholesterol-lowering, blood pressure-improving fiber.

bread tip

Look for bread labeled 100% whole wheat on the package to ensure you’re getting the full dose of nutritional benefits.

Whole Grain Bread


A whole grain includes all three parts of a plant seed (or kernel)—bran, germ and endosperm—with each part offering unique nutritional health benefits. Whole grain bread contains all the original naturally occurring nutrients designed by Mother Nature, which means all the intended health benefits are available, including a lower risk of heart disease and reduced risk of stroke. Plus, the fiber and magnesium found in whole grains has been tied to a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes. Whole grains also contain B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin and niacin), which support healthy skin.

bread tip

Try whole-grain types that also contain seeds (flax, sunflower, poppy, sesame) for a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids.

whole grain bread

whole grain bread

Whole Grain Bread


A whole grain includes all three parts of a plant seed (or kernel)—bran, germ and endosperm—with each part offering unique nutritional health benefits. Whole grain bread contains all the original naturally occurring nutrients designed by Mother Nature, which means all the intended health benefits are available, including a lower risk of heart disease and reduced risk of stroke. Plus, the fiber and magnesium found in whole grains has been tied to a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes. Whole grains also contain B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin and niacin), which support healthy skin.

bread tip

Try whole-grain types that also contain seeds (flax, sunflower, poppy, sesame) for a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids.

corn bread

Corn Bread


Bread made from corn is packed with amino acids, including all nine of the essentials. Amino acids promote bone health by building muscle and have been linked to boosting the immune system. Corn also contains significant amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoids with powerful cancer-fighting antioxidant properties.

bread tip

To up the healthfulness, choose bread baked with cornmeal or corn flour. Both are made using the entire corn kernel, which we know equates to more wholesome goodness.

corn bread

Corn Bread


Bread made from corn is packed with amino acids, including all nine of the essentials. Amino acids promote bone health by building muscle and have been linked to boosting the immune system. Corn also contains significant amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoids with powerful cancer-fighting antioxidant properties.

bread tip

To up the healthfulness, choose bread baked with cornmeal or corn flour. Both are made using the entire corn kernel, which we know equates to more wholesome goodness.

Potato Bread


For a healthier hamburger, replace a standard white bread bun with a potato sandwich bun. You'll get more calcium, iron, potassium and folate (a vitamin linked to lowered risk of birth defects and some cancers). A 74-gram potato bun also boasts an ample dose of important B vitamins—25% of the daily value (DV) of thiamine, 15% DV of riboflavin and 20% DV of niacin.

bread tip

Potato bread has a subtle sweet taste. Check the label to make sure high fructose corn syrup wasn’t used as a sweetener.

Potato Bread


For a healthier hamburger, replace a standard white bread bun with a potato sandwich bun. You'll get more calcium, iron, potassium and folate (a vitamin linked to lowered risk of birth defects and some cancers). A 74-gram potato bun also boasts an ample dose of important B vitamins—25% of the daily value (DV) of thiamine, 15% DV of riboflavin and 20% DV of niacin.

bread tip

Potato bread has a subtle sweet taste. Check the label to make sure high fructose corn syrup wasn’t used as a sweetener.

 

FEATURED RECIPES

 
 

Green Reset Sandwich

Green Reset Sandwich

Power Up Breakfast Sandwich

Ham and Cheese on Multigrain Sandwich Thin Rolls

Ham and Cheese on Multigrain Sandwich Thin Rolls

 
 

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