If you’re trying to cut carbs as a lifestyle choice, one of the first things that usually goes is bread. White bread and other simple (i.e. refined) carbohydrates contain little in the way of nutrition and are high in sugars that raise your insulin and blood sugar levels. A diet heavy in simple carbohydrates can also lead to weight gain.

Besides whole grain breads, which are better but still not totally ideal, there is an option for you that you may have heard of recently but may not be too familiar with—Ezekiel bread.

Glens Falls Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has the details on all of the health benefits of this product you may see in the freezer aisle but know little about.

What is Ezekiel Bread?

Ezekiel bread was created in 1964 by Max Torres, a man who worked at a natural foods store and was looking for a healthy alternative to white bread. As the name suggests, Ezekiel bread was inspired by the Bible, as verse Ezekiel 4:9 reads, “Take also unto thee wheat, and barley, and beans, and lentils, and millet, and spelt, and put them in one vessel, and make bread of it…” These and other organic ingredients make up Ezekiel bread without one popular bread ingredient—flour.

Nutritional Benefits of Ezekiel Bread

Each slice of Ezekiel bread contains only 80 calories, which is nearly half of what’s in a slice of some white breads. You also get three grams of fiber, five grams of protein, and less sodium than a normal piece of bread.

Ideas to Use Ezekiel Bread at Every Meal

For breakfast, replace your standard piece of toast with a slice of Ezekiel bread and butter. Of course, a sandwich is great for lunch, and feel less guilt by using these to bookend your sandwich. For dinner, cut up some pieces, toast them, and use them as a healthier alternative to croutons for a salad.

To learn more about Glens Falls Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://glens-falls-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org/.