If you live in Singapore, you are constantly on the go. You may skip breakfast on your way to work or school to catch the train. However, it is strongly encouraged to eat breakfast before beginning the day in every culture, even if it is something light like halal bread.
Bread is one of the oldest types of prepared foods used by human groups. Bread has taken a few hits from the health and wellness community throughout history, most recently from the low-carb diet and the gluten-free trend. On the other hand, Bread remains a staple food in many countries, including the United States, Ethiopia, and the United Kingdom, and is dear to many people.
The bottom line is that some types of bread are nutritious and can even benefit your health. Aside from being convenient, tasty, versatile, and comforting! So, let’s take a look at the health benefits of eating bread!
Fiber punch
Loaves of bread made with whole wheat flour, whole grains, seeds, or nuts are high in dietary fiber, as are those with artificially added “functional fibers[2]” like guar gum, inulin, and wheat bran. Dietary fiber comprises indigestible plant parts that bulk up the stool, promote regular bowel movements, and aid in waste elimination. It regulates blood sugar levels, feeds beneficial gut microflora, and keeps you satiated for longer periods. Its consumption has been linked to a lower risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, overweight or obesity, and gastrointestinal problems.
Prebiotic properties
Dietary fiber-rich loaves of bread have a prebiotic effect, promoting the growth and performance of friendly bacteria colonies in the gut. Changes in gut microbiota composition have been linked to essential bodily functions in the host, such as immunity, satiety regulation, and body weight gain, amongst others. Feeding your beneficial gut microflora can help you lose weight while also improving your mood and sleep!
Furthermore, when resistant starch, which is found in starchy fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, is decomposed by gut flora, short-chain fatty acids are produced, which fights inflammation and strengthens the immune response. In this case, whole-grain slices of bread with fruits are a good choice.
With the right choice of halal bread, you get to enjoy several benefits. But if you continue to eat it every day from an unlicensed store without checking the quality of the bread you are buying, this could go another way. So, the next time you visit a bakery, choose your bread wisely to avail yourself of the benefits.
