Wildgrain Blog
Best Pasta for Weight Loss: Can You Eat Pasta and Lose Weight?
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. There’s no going wrong with a fresh bowl of pasta smothered in sauce and covered in grated cheese. Certainly, a drool-worthy meal, but do you know if pasta can fit into your diet? Read on to learn if pasta is healthy for you and which type of pasta is the best for achieving weight loss goals. Can you eat pasta and still lose weight or fat? Will I gain weight if I eat pasta every day? Yes, you can eat pasta and still stick to your weight loss goals and lose fat. The main consideration to keep in mind when making food choices while trying to lose weight is to remain in a calorie deficit. Very simply, if your body uses more calories than you consume, then you will lose weight. To help lose weight and still eat pasta, it is important to pay attention to the nutritional facts of your pasta, your portion sizes, and what you are eating with the pasta. You can gain weight if you eat pasta daily depending on the amount and type of pasta consumed, but this can occur with any food that is consumed in excess. The key to fitting pasta into your diet is to ensure it’s part of a balanced meal that will fuel your body with nutrients, such as whole grains, which can keep you full for longer. Which pasta shape has the least carbs? Pasta shapes on their own do not determine carbohydrate amounts. Conversely, the type of flour used to make the pasta is a greater indicator of the carbohydrate content in each pasta. For example, pasta made with refined white flour will have more carbohydrates than pasta made from whole grains. Can I eat whole wheat pasta for weight loss? Yes, you can eat whole wheat pasta for weight loss. In fact, whole wheat or whole grain pasta is the best option for weight loss as whole wheat pasta takes longer to digest than pasta made from refined flour. Slower digestion means blood sugar will rise slowly after consumption, preventing your body from storing excess fat. What pastas should I avoid for weight loss or avoid for a diet? You should avoid pasta made from refined flour if you are looking to achieve weight loss goals. Refined pasta has been stripped of many of its natural nutrients and is higher in calories and lower in fiber, meaning you will likely feel full for less time after eating it. Instead, if you are on a diet or trying to lose weight, consider eating a whole wheat pasta or maintain a small portion size of regular pasta in your meal. What is the best time to eat pasta for weight loss? If you are trying to lose weight, the best time to eat pasta is within two hours of an intense workout. Research suggests that weight loss goals can be maintained if you consume pasta right after a workout because your body needs to replenish glycogen (or carbohydrate) stores that can be depleted after intense exercise. What is the best type of pasta to eat for weight loss? The best type of pasta for weight loss is pasta containing whole grains. This is because pasta made from whole grains is more nutritiously dense, and contains more fiber and fewer calories than refined pasta. Pasta that has a higher fiber content will also leave you feeling full for longer, which can ultimately help to reduce your overall caloric intake. What is the best pasta to eat while on a diet? The best type of pasta to eat while on a diet is pasta containing whole grains. In addition to whole wheat pasta, pasta made from other ingredients such as chickpeas, lentils, and veggies are great options when you are on a diet. Non-traditional pasta like these are generally lower in carbohydrates and calories while having higher protein content. Where can I buy healthy pasta online? At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh pasta that is 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 pastas include fresh fettuccine, fresh tonnarelli, and cheese tortellini. We are proud to offer healthy pastas, made with non-GMO flour and without preservatives. 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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Bread vs. Bagels: Is Bread Healthier than Bagels?
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. Bagels lathered with various toppings are the favorite breakfast and snack options of many, but do you know what makes bagels different from other breads? This article will dive into what makes up a bagel, how it differentiates from other types of bread, and whether it’s healthier than sliced bread. How is a bagel different from bread? The main difference between typical bread loaves and bagels is the baking method. Most bread types are baked in an oven after the dough has risen, whereas bagels are boiled before being baked in an oven. Compared to other bread types, bagels typically have a chewier inner texture with a crunchy outer layer. Another difference between bagels and bread is that most types of bread are formed into the shape of a loaf, while bagels have a signature ring shape. Are bagels just bread? Are bagels just boiled bread? Though bagels are similar to bread in many ways, bagels are not just bread. Bagels are more similar to a roll than to bread. One of the main differences between bagels and bread is that bagels are boiled before baking, whereas bread is not boiled. Briefly boiling bagels allow the bagels to gelatinize the starches on the bagel’s outer surface, revealing the crunchy exterior we are all familiar with. Other differences between bagels and bread include the shape and some ingredients. So no, bagels are not just boiled bread! What is the difference between bagel vs. bread ingredients? Bread and bagels are mostly made up of the same ingredients. Both bagels and bread contain yeast, flour, water, and sugar. However, many bagel recipes use barley malt syrup, a grain-based sweetener, instead of granulated sugar. Bagels also generally contain less water and more flour compared to other bread types, which is why bagels are denser than typical slices of bread. How many slices of bread equal one bagel? What is the nutrition difference between bagels and a slice of bread? Based on carbohydrates and calories, approximately three slices of bread are equivalent to one medium-sized bagel. Of course, the nutrition specifics of both bread and bagels depend on the type of bread or bagel, as well as the size. On average, a medium-sized bagel contains 190 calories, 9 grams of protein, 55 grams of carbohydrates, 7 grams of sugar, and 1 gram of fat. In contrast, a slice of white bread contains 67 calories, 2 grams of protein, 13 grams of carbohydrates, 1.5 grams of sugar, and 1 gram of fat. Is bread healthier than bagels? Is a bagel better for you than bread? Bread is not necessarily healthier than bagels, and bagels are not necessarily healthier than bread. The health benefits of bread and bagels depend on the varieties of each that you are considering, and the type of flour used to make the bagel and the bread. This also determines whether a bagel or a slice of bread is best for you. The healthiest types of both bread and bagel are ones made with whole grains, as well as options with limited added sweeteners, sugar, or artificial ingredients. For both bread and bagels, whole wheat, rye, and sourdough bread varieties are the healthiest choice compared to regular white flour alternatives. Which is better for weight loss: bread or bagels? Both bagels and bread can work for your weight loss goals. Whether choosing a bread or bagel, whole grain flours and smaller portion sizes are best for weight loss. Whole grains contain more fiber, which can keep you full for longer. A smaller portion size means fewer calories which can help you remain in a calorie deficit, a crucial aspect of maintaining weight loss goals. Where can I buy the best fresh bread and 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, pastries, and fresh pastas. Some of our popular breads and bagels include wood-fired plain bagels, wood-fired cinnamon raisin bagels, sourdough whole wheat loaf, and everything sourdough bread. 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 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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Sourdough Bread vs. French Bread vs. Baguette vs. Ciabatta vs. Italian Bread
By Dr. Jorge, Ph.D. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries. Most people tend to have a preference on what kind of bread they reach for. Whether it’s sourdough, ciabatta, or a baguette, you likely have a favorite. However, do you know the differences between bread types, and do you know what the nutritional value is of different kinds of bread? In this article, we’ll discuss what differentiates some of the most common bread types and which is the healthiest option. What is the difference between sourdough bread vs. French bread vs. baguette vs. ciabatta vs. Italian bread? The main difference between sourdough bread and other popular bread options is the leavening agent, or the substance used in the dough to make it rise. Sourdough bread uses a sourdough starter that is fermented slowly, while other types of bread, such as French bread, baguette, ciabatta, or Italian bread, use pre-fermented commercial yeast. What’s the difference between sourdough vs. ciabatta? Which is softer: sourdough or ciabatta? In addition to the varying leavening agents used, the texture and flavor of sourdough bread and ciabatta bread are different due to the ingredients and process used in making the bread. For example, ciabatta bread has a higher water content, giving ciabatta an airier and lighter texture compared to sourdough bread. Ciabatta bread also has a crustier outer layer while sourdough bread tends to be chewier. These two types of bread also have differences in taste. Ciabatta bread generally has a milder flavor, while sourdough bread often has a distinct tangy flavor. Is French bread the same as sourdough? French bread is not the same as sourdough bread. French bread and sourdough bread use different leavening agents, with French bread using commercial yeast and sourdough bread using a sourdough starter made with wild yeast. Due to the differences in leavening agents, fermentation times also differ. Sourdough bread has a longer and slower fermentation process than French bread. French bread and sourdough bread also differ in how they look, with French bread generally having a longer and thinner shape, and sourdough bread having a rounder shape. Moreover, France has specific laws in place that dictate the ingredients used to make French bread. Because of this law, traditional French bread can only be made using wheat flour, water, salt, and yeast. In contrast, sourdough bread ingredients can differ depending on the type of flour used or other ingredients added, such as fruits and nuts. French bread tends to be characterized by a thinner and crispier crust, while sourdough bread has a chewier texture. However, sourdough texture can vary based on grains and the amount of water used to make the dough. Is sourdough bread healthier than French bread? Sourdough bread tends to be healthier than French bread. The slower fermentation process of sourdough bread provides additional nutrients and antioxidants that aren’t found in other kinds of bread, like French bread, that are made with commercial yeast. Sourdough bread is also easier to digest and has a lower glycemic index than French bread. Are French baguettes made of sourdough? Are sourdough bread and baguettes the same thing? French baguettes are not traditionally made with sourdough, but it is possible to make a sourdough French baguette. French baguettes are typically made with wheat flour, yeast, salt, and water. Baguettes have a notable thin and long-shaped loaf that has a crunchy outer crust. Sourdough bread is typically made with sourdough starter, flour, water, and salt. Similar to other types of French bread, baguettes have a milder flavor compared to the tangy flavor of sourdough bread. Is sourdough bread healthier than baguette? Sourdough bread is healthier than baguette bread. The higher amounts of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in sourdough bread due to the slow fermentation process make sourdough more nutritious than baguette bread. However, sourdough baguettes or baguettes made with whole grains can be healthier alternatives to traditional baguette bread. Is sourdough bread healthier than Italian bread? Sourdough bread is healthier than Italian bread. Like the other bread types touched on thus far, Italian bread is made using commercial yeast. Since Italian bread does not traditionally use wild yeast that ferments slowly, Italian bread does not have the enhanced nutritional content that sourdough bread has. Nonetheless, you can opt for Italian bread that is made with whole grains or for sourdough Italian bread as healthier alternatives. Is sourdough bread healthier than ciabatta? Sourdough bread is healthier than traditional ciabatta bread. Ciabatta bread is a popular type of Italian bread, and therefore, is less nutritious than sourdough bread due to the leavening agent used. However, if you are searching for a healthier ciabatta bread, you can choose one made with sourdough or whole grains. Looking for the best sourdough bread? Try Wildgrain Interested in trying baked-fresh sourdough breads made with no added sugar? Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen delivery subscription service for breads, pastries, and fresh pastas. Some of our more popular breads include Sourdough Loaf, Whole Wheat Sourdough Loaf, Olive Oil Ciabatta, and Sourdough 7-Grain Loaf. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking 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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What’s the Best English Muffin?
By Johanna Hartzheim, CPO & Co-Founder | Reviewed by a Doctor of Nutrition (PhD) Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries. What is an English muffin? An English muffin is a small round bread, made from a soft dough that contains milk, butter, flour, sugar, eggs, and yeast. English muffins are made with bread flour, which has a high protein and gluten content, allowing for a soft, chewy texture. English muffins have a signature open structure that is perfect with eggs for breakfast or covered in peanut butter as a snack. How do you make English muffins? English muffins are typically made with bread flour, which is high in protein and creates the chewy texture that English muffins are known for. English muffin dough is soft and cooked on a griddle similar to how you would cook a pancake; however, the yeast causes the English muffin to rise, unlike a pancake. What are the healthiest English muffins to buy? The healthiest English muffins are whole grain English muffins. Whole grain English muffins contain only around 130 calories per serving and also have several important nutrients such as B-vitamins, manganese, and selenium. Selenium is an important antioxidant that helps regulate thyroid hormone production, manganese is essential for brain function and bone health, and B-vitamins are necessary for energy and brain health. In addition, English muffins provide 4.5 grams of fiber per serving – almost 3x as much fiber as English muffins made with refined flour. Fiber is key to slowing down digestion, helping you feel fuller longer and thus reducing appetite. Fiber intake is also important in digestive health leading to lower rates of colorectal cancer, while also reducing cholesterol. What’s the best English muffin for eggs benedict? When trying to find the best English muffin for eggs benedict, it is important to consider the size of the nooks and holes within the open structure of the muffin. English muffins that have larger nooks and holes will catch the butter, hollandaise, and creamy egg yolk better than English muffins with nooks and holes not as deep. In addition, if you are looking for an extra punch of flavor, try sourdough English muffins as a base for your eggs benedict. What’s the difference between Bays English Muffins vs. Thomas’ Original English Muffins vs. Wolferman’s English Muffins? Both Bays English Muffins and Thomas’ Original English Muffins have similar nutrition profiles, each with about 1 gram of fat, 27 grams of carbohydrates and 5 grams of protein per serving. In comparison, Wolferman's Original English Muffins have half a gram of fat, 47 grams of carbohydrates, and 9 grams of protein. However, when looking closer at the nutrition label, Wolferman’s English Muffins are around 2 times the size of Thomas’ Original English Muffins and Bays English Muffins, which is likely why the carbohydrates and protein are doubled. From a health perspective, however, the Wolferman's English Muffins are double the size, but half the fat, so if you are looking for a lower fat option, opt for Wolferman’s. What is the best English muffin brand? English muffins have a superior flavor to Wolferman’s, Thomas’ Original English Muffins, and a few other brands. Bays English muffins were found to have a balance of moist, flakey, and crunchy textures. Epicurious found that this balance was what helped Bays English Muffins pair well with both sweet and savory options. Epicurious did not include Wildgrain English muffins in their taste test, but we’re confident if they had, they would have found that Wildgrain English muffins are the best English muffins! 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 best items sold online include English muffins and croissants. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods. About the Author Johanna Hartzheim is the Chief Product Officer and Co-Founder of Wildgrain. 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 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. Sourdough bread has recently made a comeback and become a favorite bread of many in the United States. This popular bread option can be found at bakeries and restaurants, made in your own kitchen, or even delivered to your doorstep. In this article, we’ll discuss whether sourdough bread is a healthy bread option, and which types of sourdough are the best for your lifestyle. Is sourdough a healthy bread? Sourdough bread is considered a healthier bread due to the fermentation process used to make sourdough. The longer fermentation process used in making sourdough enhances the nutritional profile of the bread when compared to regular white bread. Sourdough bread has a relatively high nutritional value as it is packed with protein and nutrients, including calcium, potassium, magnesium, folate, and niacin. Sourdough is also an excellent source of antioxidants while remaining low in fat and sugar. Is sourdough bread better for you than regular bread? Is sourdough bread the healthiest to eat? The enhanced nutritional content of sourdough means that it is largely regarded as more nutritious than regular white bread. Regular white bread uses commercial yeast without undergoing a fermentation process, while sourdough bread utilizes a starter that ferments for a few days prior to making the sourdough bread. The longer fermentation process used to make sourdough bread reduces phytate levels. Phytate is naturally found in many grains and acts as an antinutrient because it binds to minerals, reducing your body’s ability to absorb them. The lactic acid bacteria found in sourdough lowers the pH (increases the acidity) of the bread, deactivating phytate. As a result, sourdough bread usually contains less phytate than other breads, and thus, has enhanced nutrient and antioxidant content. While regular sourdough bread does have a great nutritional profile, it is not necessarily the healthiest sourdough bread to eat. The healthiest sourdough bread option is one made with 100% whole grains that also contains little to no sugar and minimal fat. Breads made with whole grains are the most nutritionally dense. Given the benefits of sourdough’s fermentation process, whole grain sourdough bread might even be a healthier option compared to regular whole grain bread. What are the benefits of eating sourdough bread? Research studies show that there are numerous benefits to eating sourdough bread. Given the fermentation process used, sourdough is rich in vitamins and minerals. The lactic acid bacteria in sourdough increases antioxidant levels which can help protect your cells from heart disease, cancer, and other diseases. Sourdough bread also has a lower glycemic index due to the bacteria used in the starter. This can allow for stabilization of blood sugar levels. Lastly, sourdough might be easier to digest than regular white bread, since sourdough is lower in gluten than other breads and can act as a prebiotic, promoting a healthy digestive system. Can I eat sourdough bread every day? Is it healthy to eat sourdough everyday? You could eat sourdough every day, but it isn’t necessarily healthy to do so. A healthy diet is characterized by balance and moderation. Whether or not it is healthy for you to consume sourdough every day depends on the rest of your diet. The United States Department of Agriculture recommends 6 servings of grains per day. For reference, one slice of sourdough bread is a single serving. To determine if sourdough fits into your daily diet, check the total amount of servings of grains you are eating throughout the day. Is sourdough bread good for weight loss? Sourdough bread can fit in with your weight loss goals. When considering whether sourdough bread is a good option for weight loss, it is important to choose a sourdough bread that is made from whole grains and is low in fat and sugar. Whole grain sourdough bread is a great option for weight loss, since this type of sourdough has little to no sugar and fat, while also having increased protein and fiber. In addition to having an enhanced nutritional profile overall, the higher protein and fiber levels found in whole grain sourdough bread will ensure you stay full for longer. Is sourdough OK for diabetics? Is sourdough bread full of sugar? Sourdough bread might be a great option for diabetics as it is known to have a lower glycemic index. A lower glycemic index means that eating sourdough bread can help to maintain your blood sugar levels and regulate insulin levels. Your insulin levels will not spike as high after consuming sourdough bread as they would after eating regular white bread. Sourdough bread typically has little to no sugar. At Wildgrain, all of our sourdough breads are made without any added sugar. What is the healthiest sourdough bread? One of the healthiest sourdough bread options is one made with whole grains. Since whole grains boost the nutritional value of bread, whole grain sourdough bread and whole wheat sourdough bread are both healthy sourdough choices. Alternatively, sourdough rye bread is also a healthy sourdough option, if the rye is a whole grain variety. Rye bread can contain more fiber than other whole grains, placing sourdough rye bread in the running for healthiest sourdough bread. Where can I buy the best 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 Plain Sourdough Loaf, Everything Sourdough Bread, Sourdough 7-Grain Loaf, and Sourdough Whole Wheat 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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