Published October 12, 2011
Bread has stood the test of time as one of the most versatile staples of the westernized diet. This often lightweight goodie makes any dish seem better than before, so most meals are not prepared without it. Whether its alongside a salad, part of your sandwich or just an appetizer before you meal, bread comes in many forms, and in many variations. Its popularity is inarguable, so why not discuss its nutritional value? It is time to finally meet your bread!
Bread is most commonly classified into one of two categories: white and whole wheat. Whether it's a roll, a loaf or a bagel, it is sold in these two varieties. The white bread is easy to identify, with its white color. Wheat bread comes in different shades of brown, from very light to very dark, depending on the maker and the brand. Many people naturally gravitate toward white bread, because it looks clearer and softer - overall, it's typically more attractive. While it may look better, is white bread actually better for you? Here's what we know.
White Bread
White bread is made from the same wheat grain sources as wheat bread. The difference lies in what happens to it after that. For the white color, the grains have to be made into flour. To make flour, the bran and germ are separated from the endosperm at the flour mill. The mixture is sifted, and the endosperm collects as white flour.So white flour is actually only a small part of wheat flour. This explains why whole wheat bread contains more nutrients than white bread. The white bread is missing key components that contribute to its overall health benefits. It's important to understand this when choosing healthy meals. As many bakers know, white flour is used extensively in cookie mixes, cakes and other desserts, because of its sweetness. So in essence, white bread is closer to a dessert than to a nutritious whole grain product.
In the food pyramid, bread and cereal make up the foundation of the ideal healthy diet. With white bread, however, this is not the case. White bread must be consumed sparingly, because it has very little nutritional value. Technically, it belongs at the top of the pyramid with other sweets. In other words, it is OK to eat, but only sparingly.
Whole Wheat Bread
With whole wheat bread, the name says it all. Whole wheat bread is whole bread. Unlike white bread, which takes part of the original grains out, whole wheat contains all parts of the bread. Nothing has been removed from the original flour, so all nutrients are still in tact.These nutrients are extensive, and include the following:
- Whole wheat bread is very high in fiber, which assists in the digestive process. Many people believe that it is a weight loss agent because of its bulking properties. In other words, it creates the feeling of being full within the body, decreasing hunger over the course of the day. It also helps to regulate the bowels.
- Whole wheat is very high in vitamin B6, a vitamin that is part of protein synthesis. Uncommon in natural foods, vitamin B6 nourishes the nervous and immune systems.
- Whole wheat is high in zinc, a mineral that works to improve the immune system. It commonly works with vitamin C within the body to help regulate cell function. Zinc is very helpful with skin and acne problems, and it has also been known to assist with scalp issues like dandruff.
- Whole wheat is high in folate, a mineral that provides many health benefits, for women in particular. Studies have shown that women who consume folate have healthier pregnancies and fewer birth defects.
- Whole what is high in chromium, a mineral that works in the metabolic process. It is often used to assist in the breakdown of fats and sugar metabolism.
Interesting Facts About Whole Wheat Bread
- The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reports that consuming whole wheat is very effective in promoting weight loss.
- Whole grains reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes. It is a very wise choice for those who are already suffering from diabetes, as well.
- Whole grains may help to prevent gallstones.
- It promotes gastrointestinal health.
- Whole wheat bread is very helpful to those who have hypoglycemia.
http://www.symptomfind.com/nutrition-supplements/white-vs-whole-wheat-bread/
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