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Nutritional content varies widely depending on the type of bread you choose
Bread is a staple food in many diets. While relatively low in nutrients, bread can be a nutritious food depending on the type of bread you choose and the amount you consume.
What is the nutritional value of bread?
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) one slice (32 grams) of whole-wheat bread has the following nutrients:
- Carbohydrates: 13.8 grams
- Fiber: 1.9 grams
- Fats: 1.1 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
- Calories: 82 calories
- Vitamins and minerals: B vitamins, manganese, folate, selenium, zinc, magnesium, calcium, iron, and vitamin D
However, nutritional content varies widely depending on the type of bread. It is important to choose bread produced by a reputable company using high-quality ingredients.
Which bread should you choose?
Certain varieties of bread are more nutrient-dense than others. For example, bread made from whole grains, such as whole wheat bread, is much healthier than white bread or other breads made from refined grains.
Whole grain bread has the entire wheat kernel intact, preserving the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content. White bread, on the other hand, is stripped of the nutrient-dense germ and bran of the wheat kernel, resulting in a more shelf-stable product that has fewer nutrients.
So while whole grain bread can be good for you, the same cannot always be said about white bread.
What can affect the nutritional value of bread?
Whether or not bread is bad for your health depends on both the amount you consume and what you consume it with.
To prevent any negative effects, you should consume bread in moderation. Some suggest only eating one serving of bread each meal or per day. Review nutrition information on the bread and follow the serving recommendations
In addition, consider the foods you eat along with your bread. Sandwich spreads and fillings vary greatly in terms of nutrients as well, so it is important to make healthy choices.
