Sprouted whole grain and legume bread, known as Ezekiel bread, has also been noticed for its health-promoting effects due to its nutritional profile. Known as Ezekiel bread, it is made from wheat, barley, lentils, millet, and spelt flour, all of which are sprouted to increase nutrient density. Ezekiel bread is not like normal bread in that it contains some of the basic nutrients that are essential in our everyday diet. In this article, we will learn about what Ezekiel bread is, what nutrients it contains, the benefits of consuming this bread, and how you can eat it.

Nutritional Profile of Ezekiel Bread

Ingredients and Composition

Its specialty is that it uses sprouted grains and legumes in production, which is also its name, after the Biblical prophet Ezekiel. Sprouting is the process of steeping the grains and legumes in water until the seeds start to sprout. This process enhances nutrient accessibility to the cells and make it easier to be absorbed into the cells. The main ingredients in Ezekiel bread are wheat and barley flour and bean such as lentils and chickpeas as the main grain products. This blend not only afford the bread a delicious taste but also makes it more nutritive as well.

Germination of grains and legumes enhances the nutrients by making vitamins and mineral to be more available in the body. Sprouted grains tend to contain more vitamins than unsprouted grains, for instance, B vitamins, iron and zinc. This makes Ezekiel bread to be nutrient-dense as compared to regular bread that one can take.

Macronutrient Breakdown

According to the nutritional information, 1 slice is equal to 80 calories, 15g of carbohydrates, 4g of protein and 1.5g of fat. The carbohydrate contribution is contributed mainly by the whole grains and legumes which provide energy. It contains fiber, with around 3 grams of dietary fiber per serving, which is beneficial to the gut and helps to keep one full.

Another advantage of eating Ezekiel bread, is that it contains high amounts of protein. Grains and legumes form a complementary protein, this means it has all the nine amino-acid that is essential in the body. This makes it fit for vegetarians and vegans who want to add more protein in their diet.

Health Benefits of Ezekiel Bread

Complete Protein Source

Among all the health advantages of Ezekiel bread, the one that makes it special is that it is a complete protein. Unlike most plant sourced protein foods, Ezekiel bread contains all the essential amino acids that are recommended in the diet. It is especially advantageous for vegetarians or vegans since it indicates that they can get enough protein without consuming animal food products.

All round body and muscle maintenance require complete proteins that help in the repair process and boost the immune system. It should be noted that incorporation of Ezekiel bread into your diet will guarantee you adequate protein intake when used in combination with other protein sources.

High Fiber Content

Ezekiel bread contains a fair amount of dietary fiber and this is very essential for digestion. The fiber content also aids in controlling movement of bowel and as such, people who take it do not suffer from constipation.

Fiber also helps in controlling hunger hence making fiber an important nutrient for people who want to lose weight. Including Ezekiel bread in meals help a person to gain more fiber in their diet while still getting to eat tasty foods.

Low Glycemic Index

Ezekiel bread has a low GI, a measure of the speed at which it will increase blood sugar levels as opposed to other foods indicated by high GI. This characteristic is rather valuable for people with diabetes or those who are attempting to stabilize their blood sugar levels. Low GI foods do not cause fluctuations in the blood sugar levels, and therefore prevent energy highs and lows, as well as appetite stimulations.

Fiber and protein content of Ezekiel bread make it low glycemic bread which helps to support a steady supply of energy during the day.

How to Incorporate it into Your Diet

Serving Suggestions

Ezekiel bread can be eaten in various ways and therefore is very flexible to be taken in any meal. It is best eaten toasted and served with avocado or eggs, or spread with nut butter for breakfast or a snack. Due to its chewy and moist qualities, it is easy to imagine what the bread can be topped with.

Another tasty idea is to take sandwiches made from Ezekiel bread. It is full bodied and can easily overpower a variety of fillings, including turkey and hummus, grilled vegetables, and cheese. If you fancy something less filling, try toasting an Ezekiel bread and then placing topping of your choice like tomatoes, cucumbers or herbs on the bread.

Recipe Ideas

Apart from eating it with butter, grilled or baked then used to make sandwiches, here are other ways of using Ezekiel bread: It may be used to make breadcrumbs for use on top of casseroles or baked meals. The bread can be processed in a food processor to get breadcrumbs and baked to be crunchy.

One suggestion is to try Ezekiel bread in French toast. Coat the slices with the beaten egg and milk, and cinnamon before frying on a griddle until they are a beautiful golden brown. What you get here is a healthier version of this meal that you can enjoy any time of the day.

Conclusion

Ezekiel bread is a nutritious and delicious option that offers a variety of health benefits. With its complete protein content, high fiber levels, and low glycemic index, it is an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their diet and overall well-being. By incorporating Ezekiel bread into your meals, you can enjoy its many benefits while savoring its unique flavor and texture. Whether you choose it for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack, Ezekiel bread is a versatile addition that can support your health goals and contribute to a balanced diet. Embrace this healthy bread option and discover the positive impact it can have on your nutrition and lifestyle.