Bread is a staple breakfast option in many households across the globe.
It is the most preferred morning meal option as it is convenient, tasty, and versatile. But when it comes to nutrition, not all types of bread are the same.
The supermarket aisle is filled with a variety of bread options, processed by using different ingredients and techniques. Of all, the one consumed widely is white bread.
Indulging in white bread options including sandwiches, croissants or pastry is a true treat for some. However, making white bread a part of your regular meal can lead to several health complications.
How white bread is processed?
For making white bread, wheat flour is bleached using different chemicals which makes the flour appear white. Chemicals like benzoyl peroxide, chlorine dioxide, and potassium bromate are added to the flour followed by refined starch. These chemicals are used in a small amount, which is not hazardous to health.
The nutrient value of white bread
The calorie content in all types of bread is almost the same. The difference is mainly in the nutrient content. A slice of white bread contains 77 calories, but it is high in glycemic index. As white bread is highly processed the nutrient content in it is very low. Here are some dangers of eating white bread daily.
1. Spikes blood sugar level
White bread has a high glycemic index that means it releases glucose quickly and can spike the blood sugar level. Having white bread is particularly bad for people suffering from diabetes as sudden fluctuation in the blood sugar level can be dangerous. Constant high glucose in the blood may make your body enter into a hyperglycemic state. This condition may lead to serious health complications like cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, and kidney failure.
2. Weight gain
If you want to maintain your body weight and fitness level, then cross white bread from your grocery list. White bread can contribute to weight gain which may not be beneficial for weight watchers. Made from refined carbs, this type of bread can spike the level of sugar in your blood which is mostly not utilised immediately. The body eventually stores all the extra glucose present in the body fat leading to weight gain. High blood sugar levels can also increase the sugar craving that can sabotage your weight loss goal.
3. Mood swings
The food made from white bread might be tasty but can negatively affect your mood. A study found that consuming white bread can lead to depression in women above 50s. The person may experience mood swings, fatigue, and other symptoms of depression.
4. Your skin could breakout
Yep, eating white bread every day for lunch could be the reason your skin is constantly flaring up. Why? Believe it or not, it goes back to the glycemic index. According to research, various small studies suggest that following a low GI diet may reduce the amount of acne you have in part because it eliminates spikes in blood sugar.
Blood sugar spikes also cause inflammation to appear throughout your body and both sebum and inflammation are culprits of acne formation.
