It seems like everyone is talking about sourdough these days. And we can’t blame them for not being able to keep the name of this tangy bread out of their mouth (pun intended).

Sourdough bread has increased in popularity due mainly to the rise of home-bakers during the recent global pandemic. Fresh sourdough bread is one of the best tasting breads. It has a more complex flavour profile compared to other types of bread, boasting a “sour”, tangy flavour. Not only is it a delicious bread variety, but it’s also pretty healthy for you too!

Why? Because sourdough bread has lactic acid bacteria which neutralizes phytates found in the flour. These allow for better absorption of calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and other minerals we require in our diet.

One study found that the fermentation in the sourdough process can lower the level of phytates by more than 70%, in comparison to regular breads. Not only does this lower the pH of the bread, but it boosts the antioxidant and nutrient contents.

Keep reading below to learn more about the health benefits of sourdough bread.

It’s Mineral-Enriched

Sourdough bread is packed with nutrients. One two-ounce slice of sourdough provides 2 grams of fibre and 8 grams of protein, which improves digestion and gut heath. It also contains 13% of your daily value of iron, 21% of your daily value of thiamine, 20% of your daily value of niacin, and 15% of your daily value of manganese—all of which are beneficial nutrients for our bodies and help maintain good muscle and nerve health while strengthening the bones.

Boasts Good Bacteria

Sourdough contains a type of “good” bacteria known as Lactobacillus, which is part of the probiotics family. This bacteria, also known as lactic acid, encourages good gut health by helping your body break down food, improve digestion, better absorb minerals and nutrients, and defend against the microorganisms, or “bad” bacteria, that cause diseases. As a result, sourdough bread can also eliminate belly bloat.

Helps to Regulate Blood Sugar

Bread is a carbohydrate and has a high glycemic index, meaning it is digested quickly and causes blood sugar levels to spike. But sourdough is different. Studies have shown that the lactic acid bacteria during the fermentation process may actually change the structure of the carbohydrate molecules, which lowers the glycemic index. As a result, your blood sugar won’t surge. Instead, it will rise gradually, which can help you regulate your blood sugar better. It’s all very scientific!

Contains More Antioxidants

Sourdough bread is an excellent source of antioxidants. Antioxidants are the body’s natural defense system to control the free radicals that cause serious health conditions. It’s been proven that high levels of free radicals are associated with heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. The antioxidants known as peptides, or strings of amino acids, that are found in sourdough bread

can lower the risk for cancer, signs of aging, or chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.

It’s Gluten-Free

For the most part, sourdough bread can be enjoyed by those with mild gluten sensitivities. During the preparation of sourdough, gluten is mainly transformed into amino acids, allowing for easier digestion. For the extreme cases, sourdough bread can also be made with gluten-free flour such as rice, oats, or sorghum.

Improves Your Immune System

The preparation of sourdough bread is so precise it allows the probiotic components to work with the good bacteria to suppress any presence of bad bacteria. This process promotes better digestion while boosting the immune system. In addition, the antioxidant selenium is found in sourdough bread, which can help reduce inflammation as the immune system improves.

Promotes Healthy Aging

With the vast amount of nutrients, it’s not hard to understand how sourdough bread can improve the aging process. For example, did you know that sourdough is the go-to breakfast food in regions of the world where people are believed to live the longest? In addition to the bevy of nutrients and minerals, antioxidant properties, and blood sugar regulators, it can also help you manage your weight and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Buy Delicious Sourdough Bread in Vaughan

For safe-to-eat and fresh sourdough bread in Vaughan, visit the artisan bakers at Bartholomew Bakery. Our naturally leavened sourdough bread is available in country white, multigrain, oat & honey boule, olive & herbs, sourdough baguette, and roasted garlic & parmigiano bread.

Contact us today or stop by our bakery to sample our homemade sourdough bread in Vaughan.

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