What is multi grain bread?

"Multi-grain bread" is a broad term that can be a little misleading. Here's what you need to know:

What it usually means:

* Multiple grains: It contains more than one type of grain, like wheat, rye, barley, oats, or even seeds like flax and sunflower.

* May not be "whole" grains: The problem is, the bread might contain mostly refined grains (like white flour), with only a small amount of whole grains. This means it may not offer the same nutritional benefits as bread made with 100% whole grains.

What to look for:

* "100% Whole Grain": This is the key phrase to look for if you want the most nutritious option. It means all the grains are whole, unrefined, and offer more fiber and nutrients.

* "Whole Wheat": This signifies that the bread is primarily made with whole wheat flour.

* Ingredient list: Pay attention to the ingredients. The first few ingredients should be whole grain options, not refined white flour.

Benefits of multi-grain bread (when it's truly whole grain):

* Fiber: More fiber than white bread, which helps with digestion and blood sugar control.

* Nutrients: Whole grains contain more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than refined grains.

* Heart health: Whole grains may help reduce the risk of heart disease.

The bottom line:

* "Multi-grain" doesn't always mean healthy.

* Look for "100% Whole Grain" or "Whole Wheat" on the label.

* Read the ingredient list to ensure the majority of the grains are whole.