In a time when many people are giving up bread for health reasons, sourdough bread has earned a place in the hearts of many nutrition enthusiasts. What makes this bread so unique and so good for you?
Sourdough bread is actually made from the first type of leavening that was available in ancient times. Thousands of years ago you couldn’t go to the supermarket and pick up a packet of yeast.
Instead, you had to mix some sort of grain flour with water and then wait for natural yeast and bacteria to culture in it. This created a starter that you could use over and over again to bake bread.
Many people who make sourdough bread today have starters that have been passed down for generations. Each starter will have its own special flavors and characteristics. And bread made from a sourdough starter also has some distinct health benefits.
Sourdough breads tend to take longer to rise than breads made with commercial yeast. This extended time actually helps to break down phytates in the bread which makes it healthier. Phytates are chemicals found in all grains that can actually keep you from absorbing minerals.
Sourdough breads also have less gluten. This is because the longer rising time actually helps break down the protein gluten into its building blocks. You’ll have an easier time digesting sourdough bread if you’re sensitive to gluten. But if you have a gluten allergy, it’s still not a good idea to eat breads made with gluten.
You may notice that sourdough bread will last longer in your kitchen than other breads. That’s because the fermentation process actually works as a preservative that keeps mold at bay.
Breads can be known to cause sharp spikes in blood sugar levels. But when compared with other breads, sourdough breads actually help blood glucose levels to stay more level.
Sourdough breads also have the benefit of predigested starches from the bacteria and yeast. This makes it much easier to digest the breads for those who have trouble digesting starch.
And, of course, one of the best things about sourdough bread has nothing to do with your health. The taste of sourdough bread is very distinct with just a hint of sour flavor. This is a tangy treat for your tastebuds.
If you struggle with eating grains, you may find that replacing your usual bread with sourdough bread can help you to have better digestion without having to give up the delicious flavor and texture of bread.
