Wildgrain Blog
Are Bagels Healthy or Unhealthy?
By Dr. Jorge, Ph.D. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries. A toasted bagel with cream cheese is a favorite breakfast choice of many, but how healthy is this delicious combination? In this article, we’ll discuss how bagels can fit into your lifestyle and which bagel options are the healthiest. Can bagels be healthy? Are bagels healthy to eat? Are bagels with cream cheese healthy? Bagels can be healthy if made with whole grains, contain minimal fat and sugar, and are an appropriate portion size for your health goals. For a healthier choice, look for whole wheat, whole grain, or rye bagels. While bagels with cream cheese are delicious, traditional cream cheese is not necessarily healthy. This popular bagel topping is generally low in protein and high in fat and calories. The good news is that there are healthier cream cheese options, if cream cheese is your favorite bagel spread. You can opt for low-fat or whipped cream cheese, both of which contain less fat and calories per serving. Are bagels healthy for weight loss or while on a diet? What’s the best bagel for weight loss? It is possible for bagels to fit into your diet and weight loss goals. If you are looking to lose weight, it is critical to keep a calorie deficit, meaning you are consuming fewer calories than you are burning. To ensure the bagels you eat help you achieve this goal, look for bagels that are lower in calories or only eat a portion of the bagel. The best bagels for weight loss are those that are small or medium in size and contain whole grains. Smaller bagels are lower in calories and whole grain bagel options are higher in fiber and antioxidants. Another way to cut calories while enjoying your favorite bagel is to have half of a bagel as a serving size. Can a bagel be a healthy breakfast? Bagels can be a part of a healthy breakfast if eaten with other foods that provide an overall nutritious and balanced meal. To enjoy bagels as part of a fulfilling breakfast, consider incorporating healthy fats as a bagel spread, such as avocado, hummus, or peanut butter. You can also add an egg, fruits, and vegetables for added protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Do bagels have sugar? Are there bagels without sugar? Bagels are frequently made with sugar, since sugar helps to activate the yeast used for rising bagel dough. However, the bagels at Wildgrain contain no refined white sugar. Wildgrain’s slow-fermented bagels use barley malt syrup, a grain-based sweetener, in place of sugar. Barley malt syrup provides some benefits compared to white sugar, such as a boost of protein and potassium and a lower glycemic index. Which bagels are the best for diabetics? Should diabetics eat bagels? Do bagels spike blood sugar? The best bagels for diabetics are bagels that are whole grain, or whole wheat bagels that have little-to-no added sugar. Bagels made from whole grains have a lower glycemic index than refined flour varieties, and thus, are ingested slower and allow for a more gradual rise in blood sugar. Similarly, diabetics should opt for bagels made with barley malt syrup instead of sugar, like the bagels at Wildgrain, since barley malt syrup has a lower glycemic index. In contrast, traditional bagels that are made from refined wheat flour have a high glycemic index and can rapidly spike blood sugar and insulin levels after meals. By choosing healthier bagel options, diabetics can still enjoy bagels as part of a balanced diet. What is a non-GMO bagel? Is a non-GMO bagel healthier? Non-GMO foods refer to foods that haven’t undergone genetic modification. Many commercially available breads contain genetically modified ingredients including soy lecithin, soybean oil, corn oil, corn starch, or soy flour. A non-GMO bagel, such as a Wildgrain bagel, does not contain any genetically modified ingredients. According to research studies, non-GMO bagels aren’t necessarily healthier than bagels made with genetically modified ingredients. However, consuming non-GMO foods helps to keep farming soil fertile, reduce soil erosion, and support local farmers. Is there a healthy bagel option? What type of bagel is healthiest? The healthiest bagel is one made with whole grains. For a healthy bagel option, look for whole wheat or rye bagels. Sourdough bagels are also a healthy option, since sourdough bread varieties are more nutritious than white bread options. Where can I buy the best bagels online? At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh baked goods 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 items include slow-fermented bagels, English muffins, and croissants. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods. About the Author Dr. Jorge has been a public health researcher for many years, holding both a Bachelor's degree and a Ph.D. in Chemistry. They presently work as a medical writer and love being able to assist others in understanding various health and scientific topics. 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.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: Healthy or Unhealthy?
By Dr. Jorge, Ph.D. Wildgrain, opens in a new tab is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries. Many of us find great joy in indulging in chocolate chip cookies, whether homemade or store-bought. This classic cookie is often reminiscent of childhood memories or a family member’s beloved recipe. While this is a favorite cookie for many, how healthy can a chocolate chip cookie be? This article will discuss the nutritional value of chocolate chip cookies and how you can incorporate them into your lifestyle. Are chocolate cookies unhealthy? Are chocolate chip cookies unhealthy? Traditional chocolate cookies and chocolate chip cookies are not considered to be healthy on their own due to the large amount of sugar and butter used to make them. However, you can still enjoy these cookies in moderation and as part of a healthy diet. Additionally, chocolate cookies and chocolate chip cookies that are made with whole wheat flour or oats are more nutritious. When you’re craving something sweet, you can also opt for an oatmeal raisin cookie, which contains whole grain oats that will help you stay full for longer. Do chocolate cookies make you gain weight? Do chocolate chip cookies make you gain weight? Chocolate cookies and chocolate chip cookies will not make you gain weight if eaten in moderation as part of an overall healthy and balanced diet. Gaining weight occurs when you consume more calories than you burn; therefore, if you start regularly consuming excess calories, it is reasonable that you could gain weight. Is it okay to have a chocolate chip cookie for breakfast? Yes, it is okay to have a chocolate chip cookie with your breakfast occasionally. However, it is important to keep in mind that a traditional chocolate chip cookie is not very nutritious and is not a complete meal. If you want to make sure your breakfast is filling and balanced, try pairing a chocolate chip cookie with breakfast foods high in protein, such as eggs or a bowl of oatmeal. What’s a clean chocolate chip cookie? Are there healthy chocolate chip cookies with few ingredients? While there is no FDA definition for “clean”, a “clean” chocolate chip cookie could be one made with whole grains and healthy fats, with limited processing, added sugar, and salt. There are also recipes available for healthier chocolate chip cookies that are made with a limited number of ingredients. Traditional chocolate chip cookies are made with flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and chocolate. But alternative chocolate chip cookies can also be made with as little as three ingredients – peanut butter, brown sugar, and chocolate chips. While this is an example of a very minimal chocolate chip cookie recipe, many varieties of healthier chocolate chip cookies exist, with many recipes calling for whole wheat flour, oat flour, and coconut sugar as substitutes to make for a healthier chocolate chip cookie. What makes a healthy chocolate chip cookie for toddlers? A healthier version of a chocolate chip cookie for toddlers is the same as those for adults. To make a healthier version of a chocolate chip cookie, you can make substitutions for the chocolate, sweeteners, and flour ingredients used in traditional recipes. For example, you may use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate chips, coconut sugar in place of white sugar, and whole wheat flour instead of white flour. Additionally, for a healthier cookie that will both taste delicious and be more nutritious for your toddler, you can add in oats and dried fruit. Are chocolate chip cookies with milk healthier? Why do chocolate chip cookies taste good with milk? While it can’t be denied that a cold glass of milk to wash down a warm chocolate chip cookie is delicious, it doesn’t make the chocolate chip cookie any healthier. This is because milk is high in sugar. Pairing this sugary drink with an already high-sugar chocolate chip cookie will likely make you even more thirsty. If that’s the case, why does milk taste so good with cookies? The reason is that both milk and the chocolate in cookies contain emulsifiers, or substances that help different ingredients mix that typically wouldn’t, such as oil and water. When the milk coats your tongue, it enhances the flavor of the chocolate chip cookie and also acts as a palate cleanser, making the milk and cookie combination smooth and delectable. Are homemade chocolate chip cookies healthier? Homemade chocolate chip cookies are generally healthier than store-bought cookies because they don’t contain added chemicals and preservatives. If you are making your own cookies at home, you also have control over the quality of the ingredients you’re using. Additionally, you can increase the nutritional value of homemade cookies by substituting ingredients, such as refined sugar and white flour, for healthier alternatives. You can also add nuts, oats, or dried fruit to your chocolate chip cookie for a protein and antioxidant boost. Where can I buy the best chocolate chip cookies to bake at home? At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh baked goods that are delivered directly to your door. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen delivery subscription service for breads, baked goods, and fresh pastas. Some of our best cookies include chocolate chunk cookies and oatmeal raisin cookies, which can be freshly baked at home. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods. About the Author Dr. Jorge has been a public health researcher for many years, holding both a Bachelor's degree and a Ph.D. in Chemistry. They presently work as a medical writer and love being able to assist others in understanding various health and scientific topics. 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.
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Chocolate Croissant & Pain au Chocolat: Healthy or Unhealthy?
By Dr. Jorge, Ph.D. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries. The flaky melt-in-your-mouth texture of a butter croissant is one that many know and love, but what about when you add in chocolate? Nobody can deny how much more delicious a croissant is with the addition of smooth and delectable chocolate. While chocolate croissants are a pastry that is a beloved treat for many, are they considered healthy? In this article, we’ll discuss the nutritional value of chocolate croissants and how you can enjoy them. What is a chocolate croissant? What is a pain au chocolat? A chocolate croissant uses the same dough as a classic croissant, except it is filled with chocolate and has a rectangular shape instead of a crescent shape. Pain au chocolat is the French name for chocolate croissants, literally meaning “bread with chocolate.” Chocolate croissant (pain au chocolat) is also similar to chocolatine, another chocolate French pastry that is made from a different dough. Do you eat pain au chocolat hot or cold? Do you eat chocolate croissants warm? You can enjoy chocolate croissants (or pain au chocolat) any way you’d like, but many suggest eating them warmed to slightly melt the chocolate on the inside, as the chocolate will harden when cooled. However, it is recommended to heat the chocolate croissant in the oven instead of the microwave. This is because the pastry can lose its crispiness if heated in the microwave. With Wildgrain Chocolate Avalanche Croissants, you can bake them in the oven from frozen and enjoy fresh, warm chocolate croissants! What do you eat with pain au chocolat? What do you eat with chocolate croissants? Chocolate croissants are delicious on their own, but you can also pair pain au chocolat with whatever you’d like. In France, it is common to enjoy chocolate croissants for breakfast with a cup of coffee or orange juice. What are the nutrition facts for chocolate croissants? What are the nutrition facts for pain au chocolat? Chocolate croissants are made using chocolate, flour, butter, water, eggs, yeast, sugar, milk, and salt. The exact nutritional profile of a chocolate croissant (pain au chocolat) will differ slightly depending on the bakery. For reference, our Chocolate Avalanche Croissant at Wildgrain (which has a lot of chocolate!) contains 460 calories, 25 grams of fat, 52 grams of carbohydrates, 25 grams of sugar, and 8 grams of protein per croissant. Is chocolate croissant healthy? Is pain au chocolat healthy? Chocolate croissants are not considered healthy on their own, since they are not deemed to be very nutritious. The large amount of butter used to make croissants mean they are high in calories and fat. The chocolate filling in pain au chocolat makes them high in sugar, as well. Despite their low nutritional value, you can still indulge in pain au chocolat in moderation as part of a healthy diet. To compare the nutritional benefits of regular croissants vs. chocolate croissants, please also check out our article on the health qualities of regular croissants. Can you eat chocolate croissants for breakfast? Can you eat pain au chocolat for breakfast? Yes, you can absolutely eat chocolate croissants (or pain au chocolat) for breakfast! In fact, this is the most common way that chocolate croissants are enjoyed in France. Where can I buy the best chocolate croissants and pain au chocolat 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 pastries include Chocolate Avalanche Croissants and traditional croissants. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods. About the Author Dr. Jorge has been a public health researcher for many years, holding both a Bachelor's degree and a Ph.D. in Chemistry. They presently work as a medical writer and love being able to assist others in understanding various health and scientific topics. 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.
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Is Whole Wheat Sourdough Bread Healthy or Unhealthy?
By Dr. Jorge, Ph.D. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries. The delicious tang of sourdough bread is one that makes many of our mouths water, and whole wheat bread is a healthier alternative to white bread. In this article, we’ll discuss the combination of sourdough and whole wheat in bread and whether whole wheat sourdough bread is a good option for your lifestyle and health goals. What is whole wheat sourdough bread? Whole wheat sourdough bread is the same as classic sourdough bread, except for the type of flour used in the dough. Whole wheat sourdough bread contains whole wheat flour, whereas classic sourdough recipes use regular wheat flour and white bread flour. Is whole wheat sourdough bread healthy? Whole wheat sourdough bread is a healthy bread. Whole wheat sourdough bread combines the nutritional benefits of both classic sourdough bread and whole wheat bread. Whole wheat sourdough bread has a very low glycemic index, increased vitamins and minerals, and a high fiber content. Is whole wheat sourdough bread healthier than white sourdough? Whole wheat sourdough bread is one of the healthiest sourdough bread options. Classic sourdough bread still boasts an impressive nutritional profile due to its slow fermentation process that ultimately results in enhanced nutrient and antioxidant content. However, when sourdough bread is made with whole wheat flour, there are extra health benefits because of the whole grains used. Whole grains provide additional fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Therefore, whole wheat sourdough bread is a highly nutritious bread option and is healthier than classic white sourdough bread. Is whole wheat sourdough bread healthier than regular white bread? Whole wheat sourdough bread is healthier than regular white bread due to the slow fermentation process. Regular white bread uses pre-fermented commercial yeast as a leavening agent, while sourdough bread uses a sourdough starter made with wild yeast that is fermented slowly. The slow fermentation process used to make sourdough bread allows for greater absorption of nutrients and minerals, making sourdough bread healthier than regular white bread. Furthermore, the addition of whole wheat flour to the traditional sourdough bread recipe offers whole wheat sourdough bread an enhanced nutritious profile due to the added fiber, vitamins, and minerals found in whole wheat flour. Is whole wheat sourdough easy to digest? Whole wheat sourdough bread is easier to digest than regular bread due to the fermentation process used to make sourdough bread. The naturally-occurring acids found in sourdough, along with the longer fermentation process allow for the breakdown of gluten, make whole wheat sourdough bread easy for the body to digest. Is whole wheat sourdough bread good for weight loss? Whole wheat sourdough bread is a good bread option to meet your weight loss goals. The enriched nutritional profile of whole wheat sourdough bread makes it an excellent option for those focused on weight loss, since it has little-to-no sugar and fat and a very low glycemic index. A lower glycemic index means it will take longer for your body to convert the carbohydrates found in the bread into sugar, resulting in you feeling full for a longer period. Is whole wheat sourdough bread the healthiest sourdough bread? Whole wheat sourdough bread is one of the healthiest types of sourdough breads. Any sourdough bread with whole grains is considered healthier to classic sourdough bread. Because whole grains boost the nutritional value of sourdough bread, whole grain sourdough bread and whole wheat sourdough bread are both great choices when looking to opt for the healthiest sourdough bread option. Sourdough bread made with rye flour is another healthy alternative to classic sourdough bread, since sourdough rye bread contains more fiber than sourdough made with other whole grains. Where can I buy the best whole wheat sourdough bread online? At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh baked goods 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 items include Sourdough Whole Wheat Loaf, Everything Sourdough Bread, and Sourdough 7-Grain Loaf. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods. About the Author Dr. Jorge has been a public health researcher for many years, holding both a Bachelor's degree and a Ph.D. in Chemistry. They presently work as a medical writer and love being able to assist others in understanding various health and scientific topics. 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.
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Are Biscuits Healthy or Unhealthy?
By Dr. Jorge, Ph.D. Wildgrain, opens in a new tab is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries. While the word ‘biscuit’ means different things to different cultures, American biscuits are popular sides and breakfast staples, especially in the southern United States. Their buttery and flaky texture, especially when fresh out of the oven, make them droolworthy. But while many of us can agree biscuits are delicious, are they healthy? In this article, we’ll dive into the nutritional composition of biscuits and whether they can fit in with your lifestyle and health goals. Can biscuits be healthy to eat? Biscuits are not necessarily healthy as they contain a lot of saturated fat due to a large amount of butter used in making biscuits. The amount of saturated fat in a typically-sized biscuit usually composes 30-50% of the recommended daily value of saturated fat. However, biscuits can still be incorporated into your diet when enjoyed in moderation. To avoid adding extra fat to your biscuit snack, be mindful of spreads that can increase the saturated fat or sugar content, such as butter or jam. Why are biscuits so high in calories? Are biscuits high in carbs? A typically-sized biscuit contains 200-300 calories, with the majority of those calories coming from carbohydrates and fats. The carbohydrates and fats found in biscuits are due to the amount of flour and butter used in biscuit recipes. Generally, a biscuit contains between 20-30 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an essential component of a healthy and balanced diet, but it is important to consume them in moderation and in accordance with your personal health goals. The amount of carbs found in a biscuit constitutes 6-12% of the daily recommended value of carbohydrates, making biscuits not necessarily high or low in carb content. For a 2,000 calorie diet, the Food and Drug Administration recommends eating about 275 grams of carbs in total per day. Are biscuits full of sugar? Biscuits are not typically high in sugar, but sugar levels in biscuits depend on the biscuit type. For example, these savory parmesan herb biscuits contain only 2 grams of sugar per serving. You can expect fruity biscuits, on the other hand, to have slightly more sugar. For example, these blueberry biscuits contain 7 grams of sugar while these orange cranberry biscuits contain 4 grams of sugar. While these options are still relatively low in sugar, you can opt for a savory or plain biscuit if you’re looking to cut back your sugar intake. Are biscuits healthy for weight loss or while on a diet? Which biscuit is good for weight loss? While biscuits are not exactly healthy for weight loss or diets, biscuits can still be enjoyed while maintaining health and weight loss goals. When considering weight loss goals, it is important to keep track of the calories and macronutrients (carbohydrates, fat, protein) you’re consuming. For this reason, the best biscuit for weight loss is a whole wheat biscuit, since they have enhanced nutritional value. Whole wheat biscuits are typically lower in saturated fats and higher in protein and fiber. Are biscuits healthier than bread? Bread is generally healthier than biscuits. A slice of plain sourdough bread has about half the calories of one biscuit. Sourdough bread also contains little to no sugar and fat. Whole grain and whole wheat bread varieties also have increased nutritional value compared to white bread and biscuits. Bread made with whole grains tends to contain higher fiber and protein. Additionally, choosing whole grain alternatives has substantially reduced total cholesterol, triglycerides, and insulin levels. Are biscuits junk food or a healthy snack? Biscuits don’t fit neatly into either the junk food or healthy snack categories. Junk food is largely described as foods that contribute a lot of calories with little nutritional value. While it is true that plain biscuits are high in calories and in fat, they can be added to other more nutritionally rich foods to form a healthier snack. You can add fruits or vegetables, eggs, or other proteins to a biscuit to achieve a more balanced snack. Fresh fruit, vegetables, and unsalted nuts are some of the first foods that come to mind when thinking about healthy snack foods. Therefore, while biscuits are not a healthy snack alone, they can be eaten together with other snack options to form a healthier snack. Where can I buy the best biscuits online? At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh baked goods 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 items include blueberry biscuits, orange cranberry biscuits, and parmesan herb biscuits. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods. About the Author Dr. Jorge has been a public health researcher for many years, holding both a Bachelor's degree and a Ph.D. in Chemistry. They presently work as a medical writer and love being able to assist others in understanding various health and scientific topics. 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.
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Are English Muffins Healthy or Unhealthy?
By Dr. Jorge, Ph.D. Wildgrain, opens in a new tab is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries. English muffins have long been a popular option for breakfast, whether eaten with butter, jam, or as part of an egg sandwich. While you might be familiar with English muffins, have you ever wondered how healthy they are? Read on to learn more about which types of English muffins are the healthiest and whether they can fit into your nutritional needs and goals. Are English muffins healthy to eat? Are English muffins with butter healthy? English muffins are round and flat yeast-leavened breads made with bread flour, water, yeast, salt, butter, cornmeal, and canola oil. Since gaining popularity, English muffins now come in different varieties, such as cinnamon, raisin, and blueberry. An English muffin isn’t healthy on its own as it does not provide a balanced meal by itself, but it can still be part of a healthy diet. English muffins can be rich in fiber and several important nutrients, such as selenium, manganese, and B vitamins. While it might taste yummy to add butter to an English muffin, butter adds little nutritional value while increasing fat and sugar content, so should be avoided or used in moderation. Are English muffins healthy for weight loss or while on a diet? What’s the best English muffin for weight loss? English muffins can be enjoyed while maintaining weight loss goals or while on a diet. Since it is critical to consider calories burned versus calories consumed when trying to lose weight, it is important to note the calories in a typical English muffin. A regular sandwich-sized English muffin usually contains around 200 calories, making them a good breakfast option to maintain a low-calorie diet. You should also pay attention to other nutritional facts on a food label when it comes to weight loss goals. Some English muffin varieties contain added sugar, which has been shown to be linked to increased appetite and weight gain. When opting for a healthier choice, make sure you choose English muffins that do not contain any added sugar. Whole wheat English muffins are also great options for weight loss as they contain more fiber, more whole grains, less calories, and less sugar than other varieties. Are English muffins healthy for diabetics? What’s the best English muffin for diabetics? English muffins can be a great choice for those with diabetes. It is advised that diabetics stay away from processed foods or foods containing excessive salt, added sugars, and saturated fats. Since English muffins have low fat and sodium levels, and certain varieties even have zero added sugar, English muffins incorporate well into a diabetic diet. Additionally, whole wheat English muffins are the best for diabetics as they have a lower glycemic index, higher fiber content, and lower sugar content when compared to other English muffin varieties. Are English muffins healthier than bread? Are English muffins more fattening than bread? English muffins tend to be a little healthier than bread since English muffins have less carbohydrates, fats, and sugar than bread. While bread does contain slightly more fat when compared to English muffins, both options have 1 gram or less of total fat. Which is healthier: a bagel or an English muffin? English muffins are healthier options than plain bagels, since English muffins contain less carbohydrates, sodium, calories, and sugar than bagels. Similar to whole wheat English muffins, the nutritional value of a bagel can be increased by opting for a whole wheat bagel. Are English muffins a healthy snack? English muffins can be eaten as a well-balanced and healthy snack. Since English muffins are low in calories and fat, they can be a great option for a snack food. To up the nutritional value of an English muffin snack, choose a whole wheat English muffin and pair it with fruit or an egg. Which types of English muffins are the healthiest? English muffins made from whole grains or English muffins with no added sugar are the healthiest options, given that these options have increased nutritional value. Whole wheat English muffins contain more fiber, less calories, and less sugar than other English muffin varieties. Whole wheat English muffins also fit well into different diets, including diabetic and weight loss diets. Where can I buy the best English muffins online? At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh baked goods 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 items include English muffins (which do not contain added sugar) and croissants. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods. About the Author Dr. Jorge has been a public health researcher for many years, holding both a Bachelor's degree and a Ph.D. in Chemistry. They presently work as a medical writer and love being able to assist others in understanding various health and scientific topics. 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.
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Are Croissants Healthy or Unhealthy?
By Dr. Jorge, Ph.D. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries. Most of us can agree that the buttery taste of a croissant that flakes off in your mouth is heavenly. You might also be wondering if that delicious croissant is healthy for you and if it can fit into your lifestyle. This article will look at the nutritional value of croissants and whether they are considered healthy. What’s in a croissant? Is a croissant unhealthy? Croissants are flaky pastries that are typically made with butter, flour, sugar, eggs, salt, water, yeast, and milk. There are also varieties that contain sweet or savory fillings, such as chocolate or cheese. The nutritional value of a croissant varies based on the type, but these buttery pastries are typically high in calories, fat, and carbohydrates. While this does not make croissants healthy, croissants can still be a part of a balanced meal by combining them with fruit, vegetables, nut butter, or eggs. Are croissants high in fat? The large amount of butter used in croissants does make croissants high in saturated fat, with typically-sized butter croissants containing 8 to 12 grams of saturated fat. The high fat content in croissants is due to lamination. Lamination requires a certain amount of fat in order to succeed and is what creates those thin and flaky layers that make up a croissant. Are croissants healthy for weight loss? Can you eat croissants while on a diet? When focused on weight loss goals, it is important to keep in mind calories consumed versus calories burned. Croissants can contain between 200 to 500 calories per croissant. This means that when eaten in moderation, yes you can eat croissants even if you are on a diet and are focused on weight loss. By reviewing nutritional information (calories, fat, carbs) and choosing a type of croissant that matches your preferences, you can incorporate croissants into your diet plan so that it fits your lifestyle and goals. Are croissants bad for cholesterol? If you’re watching your cholesterol levels, you generally want to stay away from foods high in saturated fats. Consuming too much saturated fat can raise low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in the blood. Croissants can raise these LDL cholesterol levels due to their high amount of butter, and therefore, saturated fat found in croissants. Are croissants healthier than bread? Are croissants more fattening than bread? Bread tends to be a healthier option when compared to croissants, considering the ingredients used in each. The high butter content in croissants means they have a higher fat content when compared to bread. Bread is also generally lower in calories and carbs, per serving. Additionally, bread can be richer in minerals and nutrients than croissants. However, it is important to note that specific nutritional value will vary depending on the type of bread and croissant being compared. Is it bad to eat croissants every day? It isn’t necessarily bad to eat a croissant every day. While croissants cannot offer all essential nutrients, you can up the health value by adding other nutritious foods to your croissant such as fresh fruit or veggies. If you’re concerned about weight loss or overall health goals, you can also opt for smaller croissants or cut a medium-sized croissant in half to enjoy the deliciousness of this pastry while staying on track with your health goals. Is a croissant a healthy breakfast? A croissant on its own won’t make for a healthy breakfast. This is because croissants aren’t considered a nutrient-rich food. However, if eaten in combination with other foods that have more nutritional value, croissants can be incorporated in a healthy and balanced breakfast meal. Where can I buy the best croissants 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 pastries include chocolate croissants and traditional croissants. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods. About the Author Dr. Jorge has been a public health researcher for many years, holding both a Bachelor's degree and a Ph.D. in Chemistry. They presently work as a medical writer and love being able to assist others in understanding various health and scientific topics. 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.
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Best Bread for Diabetics: Can You Eat Bread and Lose Weight?
By Rikki Hoffman, RDN, CDN Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries. Our bodies break down carbohydrates into sugar molecules and then produce insulin to help digest those molecules. A diabetic may not make insulin, or their body cannot use the insulin that it does make. As a result, people with diabetes need to pay close attention to the carbohydrates they are consuming and may need to follow a low carbohydrate diet. What bread is best for diabetics? Bread generally contains a lot of carbohydrates, so the best bread for diabetics is bread that is lower in carbs and higher in fiber. Normally, carbs and sugars in bread will increase a diabetic’s blood sugar, but when fiber is eaten with the carbohydrates, the blood sugar does not rise as high or as fast. The breads with the highest fiber content are those made with whole grains. To make sure your bread is made primarily with whole grains, look for “whole” in the first ingredient (or the second ingredient after water). Added sugars in a bread will add to the carbohydrate count and will raise a diabetic’s blood sugar, so breads without added sugars (including high fructose corn syrup, honey, agave, maple syrup, fruit juices, or other sweeteners) are healthier for diabetics. Is bread good for Type 1 diabetes? What is the healthiest bread for Type 1 diabetes? Type 1 diabetics take insulin to adjust for their body’s lack of ability to make insulin and have to calculate how much to take based on the amount of carbohydrates they will be eating. Bread can certainly be a part of a Type 1 diabetics’ diet, as long as the amount of insulin the person administers is adjusted to account for the carbohydrates in their bread. The best type of bread for Type 1 diabetics, and for the general population, is 100% whole grain bread that doesn’t contain added sugars. Is bread good for Type 2 diabetes? What is the healthiest bread for Type 2 diabetes? Type 2 diabetics may also need to eat a low carbohydrate diet, and may or may not use insulin to help control blood sugar. Even with the low carbohydrate diet, carbohydrates can, and should, be a part of a diabetic’s diet. As with Type 1 diabetics, 100% whole grain bread without added sugars is the best bread to help keep blood sugars stable. To take it to the next level, there is some evidence that bread made with whole grain oats may be even healthier for Type 2 diabetics than other whole grain bread. Oats contain a type of fiber called beta glucans, which have been shown in studies to raise blood less and more slowly in Type 2 diabetics. Is multigrain bread good for diabetics? Will multigrain bread raise blood sugar? Multigrain bread is bread that contains multiple types of grains, like wheat, rye, or barley. Multigrain breads can be made with whole grains or refined grains. Like with all breads, a multigrain bread made with whole grains is generally better for blood sugar than one made with refined grains. Will sourdough bread raise blood sugar? Does sourdough bread lower blood sugar? Sourdough bread will not lower blood sugar, but it may raise blood sugar less and more slowly. Some research suggests that slow-fermented breads, like sourdough, do not raise blood sugar as high as other breads that are instead made with baker’s yeast. If the main flour used is a whole grain, that would be even better for a diabetic. The fermenting process involved in making sourdough bread may also increase the availability of fiber in the bread. Is sourdough bread good for diabetics? Sourdough bread is made through a slow fermentation process, which may cause this type of bread to raise blood sugar more slowly than other breads. As a result, sourdough bread could be a great choice for those with diabetes. Whole grain sourdough bread is the best sourdough bread for diabetics. What is the best whole grain bread for diabetics? Any bread made with 100% whole grains is a better choice for diabetics. The high fiber content of those breads leads to a lower and slower rise in blood sugar compared to other breads. On top of that, whole grain sourdough bread and bread made from oats have been shown to further slow the rise of blood sugar, which could make them an even healthier choice for those with diabetes. 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 sourdough whole wheat, sourdough 7-grain, slow fermented 3-seed bread, and sourdough rye. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods. About the Author Rikki Hoffman, RDN, CDN has been a registered dietitian for ten years, working primarily with patients who have kidney disease. She also has a private practice which focuses on helping clients achieve lifestyle and weight loss goals. She graduated with a Bachelor's in Dietetics from Rutgers University and did her Dietetic Internship at Montclair State University. 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.
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Best Bread for Weight Loss: Can You Eat Bread and Lose Weight?
By Rikki Hoffman, RDN, CDN Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries. Weight loss is a very popular and oftentimes complicated goal. Any strategy for losing weight depends on a number of factors, and diets should be personalized to the individual. As a general rule, limiting processed foods, reducing stress, and getting adequate exercise, sleep, and hydration can all play a part in weight loss. Food plays a role in losing weight, and here we take a look at how you can include bread as part of weight loss goals. Can you eat bread and lose weight? Will I gain weight if I eat bread every day? Some popular trendy diets suggest avoiding all breads and carb-rich foods, but abstaining from all carbohydrates or breads is not necessarily a healthy way to lose weight. Really, all foods, including bread, can be a part of a weight loss diet, as long as they are eaten thoughtfully and in moderation. Eating bread every day does not necessarily mean that you will gain weight. Achieving your weight loss goal will depend on how much bread you are eating and what other food and lifestyle habits you are partaking in, like exercise and sleep. Plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean meats, along with bread, can contribute to a healthy weight loss diet. Will I gain weight if I eat white bread? Can you eat white bread and lose weight? Yes, you can eat white bread and lose weight. No one type of food needs to be avoided completely when trying to lose weight, and that includes white bread! Whole grain bread has been shown to be more helpful when trying to lose weight, but white bread in moderation can certainly be part of a weight loss diet and eating white bread does not necessarily mean that you will gain weight. Is whole grain bread good for weight loss? Does whole grain bread help lose belly fat? Yes, whole grain bread is very good for weight loss. Eating whole grains have been shown to help eliminate more belly fat when compared to eating refined grains. Whole grain bread contains fiber, which may also help keep you full for longer, making it easier to eat less overall and help lose weight. Can I eat multigrain bread for weight loss? Yes, you can eat multigrain bread and still lose weight. Multigrain bread is bread that contains multiple types of grains, like wheat, rye, or barley. Multigrain breads can contain whole grains or refined grains. Like with all breads, a multigrain bread made with whole grains is better for weight loss than one made with white refined flour, but either multigrain bread or white bread can be a part of a weight loss diet plan when they’re combined with other healthy foods and exercise. What breads should I avoid for weight loss? No food, including bread, needs to be avoided completely when trying to lose weight, but moderation is key. Breads with no fiber and a lot of added sugar should be limited when trying to lose weight. Most breads from the supermarket will contain some added sugar, so make sure to compare nutrition facts labels and look for a bread with less than 1 gram of added sugar per slice. Choosing a bread with no or minimal added sugar is a healthier option that can help your weight loss goals. What is the best bread for weight loss? The best bread for weight loss is a bread that is the most filling and contains the least unnecessary calories. When shopping, look for options that contain the lowest amount of added sugar and the highest amount of fiber. This combination for the best weight loss bread is usually 100% whole grain bread. 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 sourdough whole wheat, sourdough 7-grain, slow fermented 3-seed bread, and sourdough rye. We are proud to offer healthy breads, made with non-GMO flour and without added sugar or preservatives. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods. About the Author Rikki Hoffman, RDN, CDN has been a registered dietitian for ten years, working primarily with patients who have kidney disease. She also has a private practice which focuses on helping clients achieve lifestyle and weight loss goals. She graduated with a Bachelor's in Dietetics from Rutgers University and did her Dietetic Internship at Montclair State University. 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.
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