But what does “sprouted” actually mean? “Simply put, sprouting is what occurs when seeds have started to sprout,” says Trista Best, a Registered Dietitian and Environmental Health Specialist, and Adjunct Nutrition Professor. “The process of sprouting allows the seed to begin the growth process, and then it is stopped.” Best says the sprouting process can involve seeds and grains of many foods, specifically nuts, seeds, grains and legumes. “Alfalfa sprouts are among the most popular along with mung beans, fenugreek and clover sprouts.” She adds that sprouts have been used in Eastern cultures both in medicine and cuisine for millennia. “They’re primarily used for the health benefits in acute and chronic conditions and overall wellbeing.”
Health Benefits of Sprouted Bread
Sprouted bread is a healthier bread option for a number of reasons. “Some of the major benefits that sprout consumers and some research boasts include lowering blood sugar, improving heart health and improving gut health,” says Best. “The antioxidant and fiber content of sprouts gets the most credit for their health benefits.” The sprouting process can enhance the food’s digestibility by negating some of the anti-nutrients like phytic acid, notes Lisa Richards, nutritionist and author ofthe Candida Diet. These anti-nutrients found in some plants can block the absorption of vitamins and minerals your body needs, which can lead to health issues and nutritional deficiencies.
What to Look for When Shopping for Sprouted Grain Breads
When looking for sprouted grain breads, check labels carefully—sprouted grains should be prominently listed as one of the main ingredients. Liana Werner-Gray, Certified Nutritionist, Natural Food Chef, and author ofCancer-Free with Food and Anxiety-Free with Food,says, “It is important to pick an organic bread because wheat is one of the highest contaminated crops with pesticides including glyphosate, which is highly toxic and linked to cancer and other diseases.” Note that because sprouted grain breads often contain few or no preservatives, they are commonly kept frozen or refrigerated. Here at Parade.com, we’re all about sharing products we love with our audience. When you make a purchase on an item seen on this page, we may earn a commission, however all picks are independently chosen unless otherwise mentioned.
Best Sprouted Bread
Dave’s Killer Bread Sprouted Whole Grains Thin-Sliced Bread - $5.47
This thin-sliced variety from Dave’s Killer Bread is delicious, with a robust, natural flavor. Each slice is just 70 calories and is packed with 16g of whole grains.
Silver Hills Sprouted Power—The Big 16 - $4.99
Here’s a great option from Silver Hills Sprouted Bakery, which has been perfecting the art of sprouting for more than three decades and now offers more than 20 varieties of delicious, high-quality sprouted products including breads, bagels, tortillas and buns. This variety of bread contains 16 seeds and grains and offers 6g of protein per slice.
Food for Life Ezekiel 4:9 Sprouted Whole Grain Bread - $6.18
Werner-Gray names this as her pick for the best sprouted grain bread. “This bread is made with all sprouted wheat and grains,” she says. “It is 100% organic and glyphosate-free certified, making it a healthy and natural alternative to conventional breads.” Be sure to check out their Cinnamon Raisin variety, as well.
Alvarado Street Bakery Thin Sliced Flax and Chia Sprouted Bread – $10.98 for a 2-pack
This bread from Alvarado Street Bakery has a robust taste packed with hearty grains and healthy seeds. Each slice is just 70 calories but provides 4g of protein.
Franz Organic The Great Sprouted Bread - $3.98
This sprouted bread from Franz has 90 calories per slice and provides 3g of fiber and 4g of protein. Online reviewers praised the great taste and variety of seeds, and were also pleased with its relatively reasonable price.
Angelic Bakehouse Sprouted Whole Grain Rye Bread - $16.10 for a 2-pack
Here’s a sprouted option for those who are fans of rye bread. It is non-GMO, vegan and kosher – and each slice has 5g of protein and 18g of whole grains.
Food for Life Organic 7 Sprouted Grains Bread - $6.39
Another delicious organic option from Food for Life, this 7 Sprouted Grains variety is packed with both flavor and important nutrients. You get 3g of fiber and 4g of protein in each slice, which weighs in at a reasonable 80 calories. Next up, learn everything you need to know about 21 types of bread.
Sources:
Liana Werner-Gray, Certified Nutritionist, Natural Food Chef, and author ofCancer-Free with Food and Anxiety-Free with FoodTrista Best, Registered Dietitian and Environmental Health Specialist, and Adjunct Nutrition ProfessorLisa Richards, nutritionist and author of the Candida Diet
