Can Bread Help You Lose Weight?

Whole-wheat bread can aid in weight loss by providing nutrition without causing weight gain.

Eating bread in moderation is key; excessive consumption can lead to weight gain.

Bread is a staple enjoyed worldwide and does not need to be completely avoided. Limit bread intake to 25 percent of your plate and pair with vegetables to prevent overeating.

The secret to weight loss is consuming fewer calories than you burn. It doesn’t matter if those calories come from bread or nuts.

However, it’s important to consume a variety of whole foods for overall health, not just for weight loss.

Why is bread considered unhealthy?

Most breads are processed and lack the natural fiber found in fruits and vegetables.

Bread is high in carbohydrates and calories but low in nutrients compared to other foods like vegetables and fruits. However, certain bread varieties offer more fiber and essential vitamins, such as wholegrain or oats bread. Keep in mind that these breads are higher in calories.

Gluten-free bread, often seen as a healthier choice, contains added sugar for taste. The absence of gluten affects the flavor.

Carbs have been vilified, but complex carbohydrates are an important part of a balanced diet.

Benefits of bread

Bread is convenient, tasty, and nutritious, providing a satisfying option for meals.

Additionally, bread raises serotonin levels in the brain, helping to suppress cravings, improve mood, and signal satiety.

Serotonin aids in portion control and prevents overeating. However, it’s important not to consume bread in excess to avoid weight gain.

QUESTION

4 types of bread

1. White bread: Highly processed with added sugar, it has a high glycemic index and can lead to weight gain and obesity. Refined and processed foods, like white bread, contribute to abdominal fat gain.
2. Wholewheat bread: Made from wholewheat or Ezekiel sprouts, it contains more protein, fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats compared to white bread. It helps stabilize blood sugar levels and suppresses the appetite.
3. Multigrain bread: Contains a combination of grains and seeds, providing fiber and other beneficial elements. It keeps you fuller for longer and prevents overeating.
4. Sourdough bread: Fermented for a longer time, sourdough bread has reduced simple carbohydrates and won’t cause blood sugar spikes. It is rich in vitamins, easy to digest, and promotes a healthy gut.

5 ways to include bread in your weight loss diet

Bread can be part of a healthy weight loss diet if chosen carefully and paired with the right foods.

Here are five ways to include bread in your daily diet for weight loss:

1. Choose high-fiber bread: Look for bread with a fiber content between three and five grams per serving. Fiber aids digestion, stabilizes blood sugar, and promotes satiety.
2. Limit sugar intake: Added sugars in bread can cause sugar spikes and cravings. Balance your sugar intake throughout the day.
3. Opt for whole-grain bread: Choose bread labeled as "100 percent whole-grain" or "100 percent whole-wheat." These varieties contain more nutrients and fiber compared to refined bread.
4. Consider healthy ingredients: Look for bread made with nuts and seeds, which provide protein and healthy fats. These breads have a lower glycemic index and keep blood sugar levels stable.
5. Pair with protein or healthy fat: Layer your bread with foods like chicken, tuna, eggs, avocado, or nut butter for a filling and nutritious meal.

Avoid consuming excessive carbs, such as potatoes, alongside bread. Save other carb-heavy foods for meals without bread.

Sources:

Ardmore Institute of Health. How to Eat Bread and Still Lose Weight. https://www.fullplateliving.org/blog/how-eat-bread-and-still-lose-weight

PopularAsk.net. How many slices of bread should I eat a day to lose weight? https://popularask.net/how-many-slices-of-bread-should-i-eat-a-day-to-lose-weight/

Which Bread Is Best For You — Whole-Grain, Multigrain or Whole Wheat? https://health.clevelandclinic.org/bread-best-whole-grain-multigrain-whole-wheat/

Serra-Majem L, Bautista-Castaño I. Relationship between bread and obesity. Br J Nutr. 2015 Apr;113 Suppl 2:S29-35.