Vigilant eaters have switched to brown bread from white breads over time, as brown bread is made from whole grains and is said to be healthier than white bread made from refined flour. Now, another variety of bread has surged in the food industry, taking over the fame of brown bread. It is called sprouted grain bread. If you are wondering if this bread is better than brown bread and what it is exactly, fret not. We've got you covered. Evidently, this bread is also made from whole grains but the ones that have begun to grow or sprout or germinate. Sprouting or germination is the process of grains turning into a plant if subjected to enough moisture and warmth constantly for a long time. This process unleashes the essential nutrients stowed in whole grains, making them more accessible. These sprouted grains are milled into flours, of which, sprouted grains bread is created.
(Also Read: Benefits Of Sprouting And The Right Way To Do It)
Sprouted grain bread seems to be a good option but how do you really make a decision, especially when you were already struggling to make a choice between brown bread and white bread? We'll help you clear the cloud around your head by giving you a precis of the composition of the 3 breads -
- Brown bread is made by grinding whole wheat kernels
- Sprouted grain bread is made with sprouted whole wheat kernels
- White bread is made with partial wheat kernels, stripped of many nutrients
Now that it is clear that both brown bread and sprouted grain bread are better than white bread, we need to understand why the latter is gaining so much importance.
1. Less starchy
During sprouting, the starch in the seeds of the grains is used up as energy, so most of the harmful starch and also gluten is flushed out.
2. Easier to digest
The process of germination neutralises the effect of phytic acid, which makes the bread light and easier to digest.
3. Aids in weight loss
The breakdown of starch reduces the content of carbohydrates in the grain but it still remains high in fibre content. The low-carb bread is ideal for people looking for weight loss.
4. Protects from chronic diseases
Sprouted grains are generally rich in antioxidants, which help in fighting off disease-causing free radicals.
5. Has high nutritional value
As the essential nutrients are let out from inside the grains into the sprouts, all the nutritive components are more readily available to be absorbed by the body.
(Also Read: Roti vs. Brown Bread - Which One Is Healthier?)
Sprouted grain bread gets an edge above all the other breads as it provides a whole lot of minerals, vitamins and all nine amino acids. Owing to its other health benefits, this one is a winner. However, sprouted gain bread is healthier than brown bread, but only marginally. It would be great to get this bread home as an addition to your diet but don't throw away that brown bread yet.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
About Neha GroverLove for reading roused her writing instincts. Neha is guilty of having a deep-set fixation with anything caffeinated. When she is not pouring out her nest of thoughts onto the screen, you can see her reading while sipping on coffee.