- By Iram Hussain
- Sun, 19 Jan 2025 04:55 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
White bread, a staple in many households has garnered a reputation as an unhealthy food item. This is largely due to its high glycemic index, refined carbohydrates and low fibre content. Consuming white bread regularly can lead to a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a crash, leaving you feeling lethargic and hungry. Moreover, the refined flour used in white bread is often stripped of essential nutrients including fibre, vitamins and minerals.
This can cause harm to heart health by increasing the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease. The lack of fibre and nutrients in white bread can also contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance and other health issues. Thus, here we've compiled some healthy alternatives to white bread that you can eat to maintain good cardiovascular health.
Health Alternatives To White Bread
Sourdough Bread
Sourdough bread is a heart-healthy option, beneficial for cardiovascular well-being. The lactic acid produced during the fermentation process increases the bioavailability of nutrients and creates a more easily digestible bread. Sourdough's lower glycemic index and higher fibre content also help regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
Multigrain Bread
Multigrain bread is a heart-healthy choice, offering a blend of different grains that provide a rich source of fibre, vitamins and minerals. The varied grain content helps lower cholesterol levels, regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. Its slower digestion rate also prevents sudden spikes in blood sugar levels.
Healthy bread options for your heart health (Image Credits: Canva)
Oat Bread
Oat bread is a healthier alternative to white bread, offering a rich source of fibre, vitamins and minerals. The soluble fibre in oats helps lower cholesterol levels, regulate blood sugar and promote digestive health. Oat bread's coarser texture and slower digestion rate also keep you full for longer.
Rye Bread
Rye bread is a superior choice to white bread as it offers a denser and darker loaf packed with fibre, vitamins and minerals. Rye's unique blend of antioxidants and phytochemicals helps lower cholesterol levels, regulate blood pressure and reduce inflammation, all of which support heart health.
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(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)