By Lucy Yanckello, Ph.D.
Bread is a beloved carbohydrate source be it leavened with yeast, steamed, fried, or gluten free. One of the oldest staples in our diets, there are dozens of types of bread around the world with different flavors, textures, and purposes. In fact, some of the most popular types of breads, both considered flatbreads, are naan and pita. Read on to learn more about the difference between the two, and how they compare to loaf bread in flavor, texture, and nutrient profile.
Which is healthier to eat: bread or pita or naan?
In contrast to loaf bread, pita bread and naan are considered to be flatbreads. Pita bread is yeast-leavened and round, turning into layers when baked that create a pocket that is easily filled. Naan is also yeast leavened, and contains water (or milk), flour, salt, and the addition of butter and yogurt.
Depending on what your nutrient needs are, bread, pita, and naan can all fit into a healthy diet. Naan and pita have many of the same benefits of other breads, including carbs, iron, and vitamin B. B vitamins are necessary to help break down and convert food into energy all while keeping hair, skin, and eyes healthy. Iron is essential for oxygen transport through the blood and preserves many vital processes in the body including immune function, body temperature, and digestion.
All three are relatively low in fiber (around 1 to 2 grams). Because their ingredients are similar, loaf bread and pita both have very similar nutritional profiles, including similar levels of protein and fat (around 2 to 3 grams). Naan is higher in protein (around 9 grams) and fat (around 5 grams) than pita and other breads.
Is pita bread OK for weight loss? Is naan OK for weight loss? Can you still eat pita and naan when trying to lose weight?
Every food, including pita bread and naan, can have a place in a healthy diet when trying to lose weight, as long as they’re enjoyed in moderation. The higher protein content in naan will allow you to feel fuller for longer, curbing cravings that cause excess snacking. On the other hand, naan has almost three times the carbohydrate content (45 grams) compared to loaf bread and pita (around 13 to 17 grams). So yes, you can still eat pita and naan when trying to lose weight, but in moderate amounts.
Is pita OK for IBS? Is naan OK for IBS?
Pita bread and naan unfortunately are not great choices for IBS. Pita bread and naan are made with wheat flour, meaning they are high in FODMAP, or Fermentable, Oligosaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols. This is an acronym for a group of carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine. This poor absorption leads to fermentation by the gut bacteria which results in the production of gas and other byproducts. This leads to Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms such as bloating, gas, and abdominal pain.
What’s the difference between naan vs. bread? Which is healthier: bread or naan?
Naan is a flatbread, whereas bread comes in loaves. Naan is higher in fat, protein, and carbohydrates than loaf bread. The higher protein content of naan will allow you to feel fuller for longer and curve cravings. However, the fat content of naan (from butter in the recipe) comes largely from saturated fats, which should account for less than 10% of your total daily caloric intake according to the USDA. Both naan and bread can find their place in a healthy diet in moderation.
What’s the difference between pita vs. bread? Which is healthier: normal bread or pita?
Pita is a flatbread whereas bread comes in loaves. Despite their difference in shape, pita and bread have similar ingredients - largely water, yeast, flour, and salt. Because of the similarity in ingredients, the nutrient profiles of pita and normal bread are basically identical. Both pita and loaf bread have relatively low fat, fiber, and protein content.
What’s the difference between pita vs. naan? Which is healthier: naan or pita?
Naan and pita are similar in that they are both flatbreads, but naan contains butter and yogurt, whereas pita does not. As stated earlier, naan is high in fat, and specifically high in saturated fats. Pita on the other hand is considered to be a low fat food. Naan does have other benefits, including a higher protein content which will keep you fuller for longer and curb cravings. There are some pros and cons to both naan and pitas in terms of nutrient profiles, and both can be eaten in moderation in any healthy diet.
Where can I buy fresh bread online?
At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh breads and pastas that are delivered directly to your door. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen delivery subscription service for breads, pastries, and fresh pastas. Some of our popular breads include Everything Sourdough Bread, Plain Sourdough Loaf, and Sourdough 7-Grain Loaf. 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.
