Want to Satisfy Your Carb Cravings the Guilt-Free Way? Try This Nutritious Bread

As a bread enthusiast, I revel in its carby goodness — whether it’s a crusty baguette or loaf of chewy ciabatta. But, I could really do without the not-so-great side effects of bloating the next day or weight gain over time. These bothersome side effects mostly stem from white bread, which is high in carbs and low in fiber (your digestive system’s worst nightmare). The great news? I stumbled upon a healthier alternative that’s sure to soothe my carb cravings: flax bread!

What is flax bread made of, and what are its nutrition facts?

This hearty and nutritious bread is made using either flax meal (ground flax seed) or whole seeds. The calorie count for flax bread will vary depending on its ingredients. But, the USDA estimates that one slice of store-bought flax bread baked with wheat gluten contains about 120 calories. In contrast, a slice of gluten-free flax bread has around 110 calories.

Where can you get a delicious slice? You can test out your baking skills by making homemade flax bread (often called flaxseed bread). Otherwise, pick up a loaf in stores or buy online — we like this 24-ounce loaf of Ezekiel 4:9 Sprouted Grain Flax Bread by Food For Life (Buy from Instacart, $6.99).

Similar to enriched white bread, this nutty-flavored bread makes for excellent toast, sandwiches, or open-faced sandwiches topped with vibrant ingredients like tomatoes and basil. Yum!

What are the benefits of eating flaxseed bread?

This type of bread comes with major health perks! For one, flax seeds are packed with key bioactive compounds such as alpha-linolenic acid, soluble fiber, protein, and lignans.

Wondering how that gives flaxseed bread the edge over other breads? A 2013 study published in the Italian Journal of Food Science found that adding flax seeds to dough before baking increased the bread’s antioxidant properties compared to loaves made only with wheat flour. 

These compound-rich seeds have been shown to benefit heart health by lowering cholesterol, reducing inflammation, and protecting against plaque formation in the arteries. 

Previous research published in Cancer Causes & Control also suggests that there’s a link between flaxseed consumption and a lower risk of breast cancer.

Plus, health professionals at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center note that these seeds may help prevent breast and colon cancer in addition to these benefits:

• Assist in controlling blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes
• Ease symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes and night sweats
• Nix constipation 

With this evidence in mind, you’ll likely see some amazing benefits by eating flax bread as part of a balanced diet. But, it’s worth speaking with your doctor before making any diet change to ensure the best results for your health!

Looking for other ways to satisfy your carb craving without guilt? Consider trying rye bread or take a look at our list of the healthiest breads that are linked with longevity.