6 questions about the relationship between French bread and weight loss

Delicious smell, golden and crunchy crust, soft crumb… All these adjectives are inviting and describe very well the famous French bread, very popular in Brazil since the 20th century, when it invaded bakeries. Although tasty, he is a source of carbohydrates and one of the villains of the diet. Therefore, with the help of nutritionist Elizabeth do Nascimento, Master in Public Health from USP (University of São Paulo), we clarified all doubts about this food.

1. After all, he interfere with weight gain or not?

Yes, the French roll is actually more fattening compared to some other breads available on the market, such as wholemeal bread. The 50 g French roll has about 140 kcal and 80% of these calories are derived from carbohydrate of high glycemic index.

“People usually add fillings ranging from simple butter to items with a high fat content, such as cheese, ham, hamburgers, sausages, associated with mayonnaise and various sauces. With the inclusion of these fillings, the sandwiches with French bread are even more caloric”, explains Elizabeth do Nascimento.

two. What foods can replace French bread?

French bread can be replaced by bread and cookies made from wholemeal flour, which have a slightly lower caloric content. Or, even, for other cereals and/or preparations such as corn flour couscous, quinoa, pancakes, granolas, oats, plantain, fruits, roots and tubers, such as cassava, cassava and others nutritious food.

3. What does whole grain bread have that others don’t?

Whole grain bread has vitamins and minerals in its composition that are important for the body’s health, such as vitamin B1 (nourishes muscle cells and the nervous system), vitamin B2 (acts in cell development and renewal), vitamin E (which is present in wheat germ and is an important nutrient in delaying cell aging), among others. “In addition, the food fibers contained in wholemeal bread can help the intestine”, says the nutritionist.

4. Is homemade bread healthier?

There are several homemade bread recipes that range from caloric value to flavor and nutritional value. We can make breads with ingredients such as carrots, cassava, rice, spinach, beets, pumpkin, yams, potatoes, prunes, apples, raisins and other dried fruits.

“Ingredients that increase tenderness and flavor are usually added to these recipes, such as fats, eggs, honey and milk. These components end up making homemade bread more caloric. However, they have the advantage of not containing food additives such as flavourings, dyes and preservatives, which makes them healthier”, explains Elizabeth do Nascimento.

5. Toast or bread: which has fewer calories?

Contrary to what we imagine, toast is more caloric. The difference is that toast has less water in its composition than French bread, so the nutrients (carbohydrates, proteins and fats) are more concentrated and, consequently, with a higher caloric value. However, we have the false impression that they are less caloric because they are lighter.

“The biggest warning is if the toast comes buttered, because we run the risk of eating them compulsively. It is necessary to pay attention to the amount ingested in each snack or meal, as we can consume even more calories than when eating bread. It is important to add that bread gives more satiety to those who consume it”, says the professional.

6. I want to lose weight. Do I need to eliminate bread from the menu altogether?

Who wants to lose belly should, mainly, think about the food as a whole. The most important thing is to reduce the amount of consumption you are used to. The error is in exaggeration.