21/01/2021
Why the hype about sourdough bread?
There is so much more to sourdough that just great-tasting bread, it has a number of health benefits. Sourdough bread is made with flour (stoneground), water and salt and undergoes a lengthy fermentation process which involves lactic acid bacteria and naturally occurring yeast which has been cultivated in a sourdough “starter”. This process requires a lot of patience and planning, but is definitely worthwhile. This long and slow fermentation process is the heart of the health benefits.
Unfortunately, the word “sourdough” is not protected and loaves can be labelled sourdough even though it did not undergo the above mentioned process. Therefor chose your supplier wisely or try making it yourself.
Health benefits of sourdough include:
1. No more bloating: Commercially produced bread can cause symptoms like bloating and wind. This can be due to gluten content but also due to the speedy production process of the bread.
2. Makes gluten more digestible: Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye and barley and some people find it hard to digest. The lengthy fermentation process of sourdough pre-digests the gluten.
3. Higher in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants
4. Will keep you going for longer: The longer dough is fermented the greater the portion of soluble fibre in the bread. Sourdough is also high in resistant starch and the combination will keep you fuller for longer.
Le Pain Cafe at Puma Eros is a worth a visit, as they are all about bread and coffee.
If you are gluten intolerant, suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), heart burn or bloatedness contact your dietitian today.
