Most of us don’t need more than one reason to eat sourdough; it’s simply delicious! However, many of us don’t realize just how healthy sourdough actually is. Among a plethora of general health benefits, sourdough is particularly supportive of our gut health. Below are a few of the most impressive (and our favorite) sourdough statistics.
Unlike traditional breads that are made with commercial yeast, sourdough naturally harnesses wild yeasts from the environment, helping to create lactic acid containing bacteria. These are the key components in sourdough fermentation. This slow fermentation process breaks down the gluten and makes it easier to digest, which is a huge benefit for individuals with mild gluten sensitivities. The unique combination of wild yeasts and bacteria also helps improve the bioavailability of certain nutrients, like B vitamins and minerals, making them easier for the body to absorb.
Consumption of sourdough bread allows better food digestion, promotes better nutritional uptake of minerals and vitamins and improves gut health with the presence of lactic acid bacteria in the form of prebiotic food. These prebiotics encourage the growth of healthy gut flora, which play a vital role in digestion, immune function, and overall well-being. Regular consumption of sourdough can contribute to a more balanced microbiome, promoting gut health and supporting digestion in a way that regular bread simply doesn’t.
As we digest carbohydrates, our blood glucose naturally rises. Rapid spikes and drops in blood glucose can increase the risk for chronic illnesses. We get these big spikes from eating simple carbohydrates, like sugar and refined grains. How foods affect our blood glucose is measured by glycemic index and load. Glycemic index refers to how much your blood glucose rises two hours after eating, whereas glycemic load indicates how quickly the blood glucose spike occurs. Sourdough bread has a lower glycemic index and load than white and whole-wheat bread that is not fermented.
Our commitment to using high-quality ingredients and time-tested baking methods is what makes When Pigs Fly a top-tier gut healthy sourdough. By prioritizing natural fermentation, our bread not only avoids additives and preservatives, but also becomes a richer, more nourishing option. So, although we don’t need any more reasons to enjoy our favorite bread, now we have more than enough to feel great about every bite.
By Charlie Mills
Here is a complete list of our 100% sourdough based, gut healthy breads: