Do you want your gut to feel better and work better? One of the most important steps in improving gut health is making wise food choices. Bread, among other things, can contribute to intestinal health. Well-made breads are not only tasty, but they are packed with nutrients and fiber that support the microbial life within our intestines, and therefore an overall healthier body system. In this article, we’ll explore 6 characteristics of premium breads and how they can nourish your gut flora for optimal digestion and well-being.
The sourdough:
Sourdough is one of the healthiest and most delicious types of bread that exists. In fact, eating sourdough can bring a number of benefits to your body. Traditional sourdough, unlike other types of bread, is made with natural prebiotics that are easier to digest.
Also, when the dough ferments during the baking process, probiotics are also produced. Probiotics are like vitamin supplements for our intestinal health, since they contribute to balanced digestion. All of this makes sourdough a scientifically engineered superfood—no wonder it’s so popular with foodies!
100% wholemeal bread:
Unlike many breads made with milled and crushed grains, whole grains preserve the integrity of the grain: this includes the germ, endosperm, and bran, which form the outer layer rich in nutritional fiber and other protective nutrients. Additionally, epidemiological studies have shown that the consumption of whole grains is associated with numerous health benefits. Including a reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer, indicates an article published in the Proceedings of the Nutrition Society by Cambridge University Press.
100% sprouted rye bread:
Rye bread is known for its darker, denser consistency. It is similar to whole wheat bread, but traditionally rye flour is used. However, there are rye breads made from various wheat and rye flours.
Rye bread can help you fill up easier and have a reduced impact on your blood sugar. According to a 2009 study published in BioMed Central’s Nutritional Journal and conducted in 12 healthy adults, participants who ate whole-grain rye bread secreted less insulin than participants who ate white bread. However, excess insulin in the blood increases the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Oat bread:
Oat bread is made from a mixture of oats, whole wheat flour, yeast, salt, and water. The oats boost the nutritional content of this bread and are linked to a variety of health benefits.
Oats are a rich source of fiber, such as beta-glucan, which helps lower cholesterol, lower high blood pressure, and regulate blood sugar. A meta-analysis of 28 studies has shown that consuming at least 3 g of oat-based beta-glucan per day leads to a significant reduction in LDL (bad) cholesterol and total cholesterol levels. The 2014 study was published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
flax bread:
Flaxseed bread is typically made with flax seed meal and whole wheat flour; It is one of the healthiest breads to consume. High fiber content means healthier digestion. Flaxseeds have unique characteristics: they contain alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid that comes from plant foods. A systematic review of 27 studies found that high ALA intake was associated with a lower association with heart disease. This study was published in 2012 in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
Gluten-free bread:
Gluten-free bread has become an increasingly popular healthy eating option, and for good reason. They are usually made from gluten-free flours such as almond, brown rice, coconut, corn, potato or tapioca flour.
Studies have shown that replacing regular wheat bread with gluten-free products is correlated with a lower glycemic index, better glucose metabolism, and a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Additionally, consuming gluten-free products can help gluten-sensitive individuals gain essential nutrients such as fiber, protein, and B vitamins, which can be lost by avoiding gluten-containing foods. Backed by science and a range of delicious options now available on the market, there’s no question why so many people are making this healthier switch.
* HealthKey strives to convey health knowledge in a language accessible to all. In NO EVENT can the information provided replace the opinion of a health professional.
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varied diet wellness gut flora bowels nutrition gut health