Round sourdough loaf with scored crust and flour dusting on a wooden cutting board

Best Bread for Gastritis

by Conlan Foy in Wildgrain Blog

By Lucy Yanckello, Ph.D.

Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries.

When dealing with gastritis, choosing the right bread can make a big difference, and sourdough often comes out on top – but every stomach is different. The key to mitigating gastritis symptoms is avoiding heavily processed loaves with added sugars, preservatives, or high-fat toppings. When in doubt, those with gastritis should opt for simple, minimally processed options.

Can bread irritate your stomach? Can I eat bread if I have a gastric problem? 

Yes, bread can be irritating for some individuals with gastric problems, or issues with the stomach. Heavily processed foods such as breads with preservatives, high amounts of added sugar, or high amounts of added fats can exacerbate symptoms. This does not mean that all bread should be avoided. Many people with mild gastric problems are able to tolerate whole grain bread and sourdough bread, especially those made with minimal ingredients.

What is the best bread for gastrointestinal problems? 

The best bread for those with gastrointestinal problems is bread that is minimally processed and has ingredients that are easy to digest. The top pick that falls into these categories is sourdough bread due to its natural fermentation and low gluten content. The slow fermentation process can help support healthy digestion and reduce bloating. The ‘best’ bread is highly individual and depends on what condition you have, but when in doubt opt for breads that are preservative free and have minimal ingredients. 

Can you eat bread when you have gastritis? Which bread is good for gastritis? 

Gastritis refers to inflammation of the stomach lining and can be caused by bacteria, health conditions, or lifestyle choices (e.g. use of tobacco or alcohol). Although there is not a confirmed link between nutrition and most types of gastritis, a study in 2020 revealed that 58% of those with chronic gastritis said dietary factors had an effect on their symptoms. 

You can eat bread when you have gastritis, but the best choice is one that is easy to digest, low in fat, and free from additives. Sourdough bread often tops the list due to its natural fermentation process that lowers gluten levels, allowing for improved digestibility. Additionally, sourdough bread contains probiotics that can improve overall gut health. If you can tolerate fiber, whole grain bread without seeds is another good option as fiber aids in digestion.

Is bread bad for gastritis?

Bread is not inherently bad for those with gastritis, however it depends on the type of bread as well as personal tolerance of ingredients. Breads that are highly processed, such as white sandwich loaves have high levels of sugar, preservatives, and refined carbohydrates that can irritate the stomach lining. Choosing the right kind of bread for your specific condition makes all of the difference. 

What bread is best for stomach acid? Will bread absorb excess stomach acid?

Food made from whole grains can help to absorb acid in the stomach, including whole grain bread. Whole grain bread is rich in fiber, and fiber can absorb liquid in the digestive system, preventing the displacement of stomach acid. This in turn can reduce symptoms of excess stomach acid.

Is sourdough bread good for gastritis? Does sourdough bread neutralize stomach acid? 

Sourdough bread often tops the list due to its natural fermentation process that lowers gluten levels, allowing for improved digestibility. Additionally, sourdough bread contains probiotics that can improve overall gut health. Although sourdough bread does not neutralize stomach acid like an antacid would, it can help soothe the digestive system. This is because the fermentation process lowers the gluten content allowing for easier digestion. Be sure you are consuming naturally fermented sourdough though – not the sourdough flavored bread full of additives and preservatives.

Is white bread good for gastritis? Is wheat bread ok for gastritis?

Including whole grains in your diet, such as those in whole wheat bread, are ideal when you have gastritis, because they are bland and have fiber content. If you can tolerate fiber, whole grain bread without seeds is a good option for those with gastritis, as fiber aids in digestion. On the other hand, due to being highly processed, white bread appears to increase the risk of inflammation. As such, it should be avoided for those with gastritis, especially those with bacterial gastritis. Highly processed foods can impact the growth of normal bacteria in your stomach and allow the harmful bacteria that cause gastritis to proliferate. 

Is toast ok for gastritis? 

In most cases, toast may actually be better for gastritis than fresh bread. Toast has a lower moisture content than bread which makes it easier to digest. Additionally, toasting bread causes some of the starches to break down which can make it less likely to trigger acidity or bloating. However, make sure you stick to plain toast with no greasy toppings such as butter or heavy spreads. 

Where can I buy healthy bread online?

At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh breads that are delivered directly to your door. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen delivery subscription service for breads, rolls, pastries, and fresh pastas. Some of our popular breads include plain sourdough loaf and whole wheat sourdough. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods. 

About the Author

Lucy Yanckello received her Ph.D. in nutrition from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. She currently works as a medical writer and enjoys being able to help people better understand nutrition and science.

This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your doctor about any questions or concerns.

Tags: Bread Healthy Eating Sourdough
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