This is such a common question with many clients. Let's figure out why people think this . . .
Bread has such a bad reputation. When clients meet with me they are often shocked when I start explaining how to incorporate nutritious grain options into their meals. Many people feel as though it is impossible for them to lose weight if they eat bread. It seems like I'm always convincing someone that eating bread is OK! So why is this the case? Well it comes down to types and amounts of grains in our dietary patterns.
Types of Grains
The grains group is split into whole grains and refined grains. At least half of your grains intake should come from whole grains. Examples of whole grains include brown rice and 100% whole wheat/whole grain bread. These foods are high in fiber and typically lower in sugar and fat. Refined grains include cake, pretzels, cookies and crackers, which are higher in calories, sugar and fat and contain less fiber than whole grains.
“At least half of your grains intake should come from whole grains. Only 2% of the American population consume adequate amounts of whole grains.”
Amounts of Grains
Every 5 years the CDC publishes research on the standard American diet in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025. They found that 60% of Americans meet or exceed recommendations for adequate amounts of total grains and only 2 percent consume adequate amounts of whole grains (https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov). This means that 98% of Americans are filling up on refined grains like cake, cookies, crackers which add far more calories, fat and #sugar to their plate. This type of dietary intake pattern can contribute to weight gain and make it difficult for them to lose weight.
The Short Answer
Generally speaking #bread does not make you fat. However, you may be able to improve the quality of the grains that you include in your meals and reduce your portion size to an amount that better suits your nutrition needs.
The Solution
Increase your intake of whole grains and decrease your intake of refined #grains. Have your nutritionist create an individualized #nutrition plan that is specific to your needs. Discuss portion sizes to make sure that the amount of grains you consume is on point!
Book now to schedule online nutrition counseling with Woodlands Family Nutrition today!
Disclaimer: Woodlands Family Nutrition is an online nutrition practice that serves The Woodlands, Texas and surrounding Montgomery County area (Conroe, Montgomery, Spring, Willis). This practice provides nutrition therapy virtually via telehealth. All information presented and written within woodlandsfamilynutrition.com are intended for informational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional.