Today there are many alternatives to the longstanding sliced bread. But now the challenge lies in having to navigate the supermarket aisles for those healthy products. In particular, gluten free products line the shelves with the premise that purchasing them will lead to a healthier lifestyle. But is that truly the case? Not necessarily.
Gluten free products are often laden with fat, sugar, and carbohydrates to compensate for their lack of “gluten”. Those who suffer from celiac disease or have a gluten intolerance develop an autoimmune response to consuming gluten, therefore benefit from a gluten free diet. However, those without these autoimmune responses may not be consuming a healthier alternative by eating gluten free. This has created a gap in the food supply industry, leaving consumers without a healthy, gluten free bread option that is still able to properly nourish our bodies while actually satisfying consumers’ taste buds. Enter Barely Bread, a 100% grain- free bread.
Gluten-free and grain-free breads: the differentiating factors
While grains contain carbohydrates, a necessary macronutrient in our diet, there may be a more effective way to meet your nutritional needs. Depending on the degree of processing and ingredients used in whole grain products, grains can cause spikes in blood sugar leading to obesity, diabetes, inflammation, and autoimmune disease. While grains can provide nutritional benefits to an overall healthy lifestyle, going grain- free can offer greater benefits by lowering your overall carbohydrate intake, while increasing your levels of soluble fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
Grains also contain phytates, a substance that can impair your body’s absorption of certain minerals such as magnesium, iron, calcium, copper, and zinc. Furthermore, grains are often over- processed with additives to ensure maximum shelf life in your grocery store and at home.
With the overconsumption of both grains and these “healthier” gluten free products, we have seen an increase not only in obesity, but diabetes as well. Obesity and diabetes walk hand in hand; they’re two of the most serious health problems. Once someone becomes obese it’s very easy for this person to develop diabetes. Unfortunately, once a person has become diabetic there’s no way back, the symptoms can be managed but as of today there’s no complete cure for diabetes.
Barely Bread has been able to create a nutritious product, while still being able to service the celiac and gluten intolerant population as these grain-free products also happen to be gluten free breads. According to their website, Barely Bread uses almond, seeds, and coconut flours instead of wheat to make their products. They have approached the bread industry with a fresh new perspective, and disrupted the bread aisle!
Barely Bread is becoming a strong force on the market, due to the high quality of ingredients, outstanding nutritional profile, and of course amazing taste! It is no wonder they are rapidly becoming the next “it” food product on the market!
Why would one consider going grain- free?
By eliminating grains from your diets, you are also removing some of the hurdles that often come with living an active and healthy lifestyle. The spokesperson for Barely Bread states, “With ingredients like almond flour, flaxseed meal, and egg whites, we have replaced ingredients that have less nutritional benefit with those that contain an enhanced nutritional profile for your overall health.”
Their products contain lower carbohydrate and sugar content, with higher soluble fiber, protein, Omega 3’s, and minerals. They also ensure that their products are baked without preservatives and additives, so you can enjoy while knowing that their products are preservative and additive-free!
We can finally take a bite out of a toasted piece of warm bread with enjoyment and peace of mind!
In conclusion
Gluten free breads can not be compared with grain-free breads, as there is no comparison. Between the nutritional profile, taste, and long-term effects, Barely Bread has completely changed the way breads are supposed to be made for the better!