Bread is one of the most essential foods in most homes, but not every loaf you find in the supermarket is equally good for our bodies. And although this is well known, there are so many varieties that it can be hard to decide which to buy. If you’re one of the people who face that dilemma, you’re in luck, because nutritionist María Casas has put together a ranking of Mercadona breads to explain “which are the healthiest and which you should avoid.”
After conducting thorough research, the expert has decided to classify all breads into four categories to make everything simpler and thus you know what you should buy next time.
1. Traditional loaves
María Casas starts off strong by debunking some myths about the standard loaf that everyone knows. The expert asks us to be very careful with the long-standing loaves, such as classic bread, ciabatta, baguette, or country loaf. She explains that “these options aren’t advisable because they are low in nutrients and fiber, made from refined flours.” If you like loaves and are looking for a healthier option, the dietitian recommends swapping them for 51% whole-grain bread, country-style bread, or bread with 12% seeds. In fact, the latter is a great idea because “it contains seeds, which makes it higher in nutrients” and, therefore, much better for your health.
2. Bread rolls
On the other hand, if you’re among those who prefers buying breads individually, there is a rule you should never skip according to the expert: they must always be 100% whole-grain. In this category, María Casas recommends three specific supermarket options that meet this requirement, since she assures that this can greatly improve our internal health: “Remember, if they are 100% whole-grain, they are good for your gut microbiota.” So the message is clear: you can buy rolls or mini formats, but make sure they are whole-grain if you want to keep your body healthy.
3. Specialty breads and burgers
In the section of special breads you’ll find a bit of everything: crackers, gluten-free options, crystal round bread, cheese bread, or bagels. And although the expert recommends them, there is one that captures her attention above the rest: the 100% whole-grain burger bun.
For those days when the body craves a burger and you can’t resist any longer, having a good bread can make the dinner much more on point. Therefore, again, the recommendation is to opt for whole-grain bread. That said, the expert adds a caveat with this, especially for those who are very particular about what they eat: “Although these are very good, there are better options among other breads with a higher proportion of whole-grain flour.”
4. Sandwich bread
Finally, the expert analyzes sandwich breads, a staple for snacks and quick dinners. Here the advice is firm: avoid white breads at all costs and always prioritise 100% whole-grain versions.
As an extra, María Casas has revealed her favorite Mercadona product: “Even this oats bread, with 35%, is my favorite,” she concludes in her video, opening the debate with her followers to learn which one is theirs.
