Sourdough bread is a labour of love. Made through a fermentation process, sourdough bread is fortified with probiotics and organic acids, supporting long-term health.
Its tangy flavour, unique texture and nutritional benefits set it apart from other types of bread. Read on to learn more about the health benefits of sourdough bread.
What are the health benefits of sourdough bread?
Let us break down the incredible health benefits of sourdough bread that come from this unique fermentation process.
- Gut health: The fermentation process in sourdough enhances the growth of beneficial bacteria, creating an optimal balance of gut flora. These bacteria assist in digesting food and absorbing nutrients. Additionally, prebiotics in the bread nourish these beneficial bacteria, further enhancing gut health.
- Blood sugar management: Sourdough features a lower glycemic index, unlike bread made from highly processed flour. This leads to a slower increase in blood sugar levels, which can benefit individuals living with diabetes or insulin sensitivity. The fermentation process alters the starches in the bread, making them more digestible and less likely to cause blood sugar spikes.
- Heart health: High fibre content is another hallmark of sourdough bread. Fibre is crucial to manage cholesterol levels and reduce hypertension—both are risk factors for heart disease. The fermentation process also increases the availability of phenolic compounds in the bread—they prevent the formation of blood clots and improve heart health.
- Digestibility: Sourdough’s fermentation process breaks down gluten, a protein that many people find difficult to digest. This makes sourdough a preferable option for those with mild gluten sensitivities. In addition to that, the breakdown of phytic acid during fermentation also allows the body to absorb more nutrients from the bread.
- Nutritional content: Fermentation makes sourdough bread easier to digest. It also improves its nutritional value by increasing the availability of vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, magnesium, antioxidant compounds, and B vitamins. These nutrients are more readily absorbed by the body due to the fermentation process breaking down enzyme inhibitors.
- Satiety: The complex carbs in sourdough bread break down more slowly due to its unique fermentation process. It also provides a feeling of fullness that can help with weight management.
Conclusion
Choosing to include sourdough bread in your diet can be extremely beneficial—it satisfies your palate and supports your overall health. Incorporating sourdough bread into your meals is a smart choice for a healthier lifestyle.
In addition to smart dietary choices, it is important to take safety precautions when it comes to safeguarding your health. Remember to take annual consultations with your healthcare provider. A comprehensive health insurance policy can cover the costs of preventative care and treatment in the event of an emergency.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only. Please consult a medical or nutrition professional before making any significant changes in your daily diet. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any impact or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.