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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Should I always choose whole grain bread over white bread?

    Related Topic
    Nutrition
    Are there any nutritional benefits of white bread? If not then should I always go with whole grain bread?
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    Nicole Senior

    Dietitian, Nutritionist

    I'm an Accredited Practising Dietitian and Nutritionist, consultant, author, speaker and food and health enthusiast. I love talking and writing about food and health.(please note, … View Profile

    A recently published study by Dr Peter Williams addressed this question, or more specifically the more general question about whether refined carbohydrate foods like bread are harmful. His study found no increased risk of chronic disease (like heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer) associated with consuming up to 50% of your grains as refined grain foods. The DIetary Guidelines say to eat “preferably wholegrain” while the USA says eat half your daily grain serves as wholegrain. There are health benefits of eating wholegrain and high fibre grains but don't feel bad about enjoying the odd soft ‘n squishy white roll, Turkish bread or bagel. Remember its those everyday choices and what you have on hand at home that really counts so make wholegrain bread your usual choice.
    Here’s a link to read more about the study http://www.glnc.org.au/4th/media-releases/

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  • Denise Burbidge

    Dietitian, Nutritionist

    Denise is an Accredited Practising Dietitian working in private practice in Melbourne, and consulting to aged care facilities throughout Victoria. Denise has a particular interest … View Profile

    Whole grain breads are a great example of a low glycaemic index (low GI) food compared to white breads which have a high glycaecmic index. The low GI breads such as wholegrain bread are beneficial as they are slowly digested and absorbed into the body giving a more sustained energy release and assist in preventing post meal high blood sugar levels. Low GI breads are suitable bread choice for people looking to lose weight or who have diabetes. Wholegrain bread also has the added benefit of higher fibre content. Therefore I recommend to clients to choose low GI breads such as wholegrain bread most of the time. Occaisional intake of white bread is also accpetable.

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  • David Finnin

    Dietitian

    Accredited Dietitian and Nutritionist specialising in food allergies, food intolerance and strategies for weight loss. I'm passionate about good nutrition and love working with clients … View Profile

    I would certainly advise on choosing wholegrain breads over white bread, as would most other Dietitians. However there is nothing magical about wholemeal or wholegrain bread alone, however when eaten as part of a mosty wholesome and nutritious diet then health benefits will be seen.

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