"It’s OK to Eat Sliced Bread", Says New Study

30 Sep 2016 --- A new study has revealed that eating bread can form part of a healthy diet. The research commissioned by the Irish Bread Bakers Association (IBBA) and carried out by the Irish Universities Nutrition Alliance (IUNA) suggests that bread contributes 20% to our fiber intake, 9% to our protein intake, while white bread only contributes 1% to our daily fat and sugar intake.

The study also found a direct correlation between those preschool children that ate bread and increased growth and development within that preschool group.

The Irish report, which follows from a previous one published in 2008, says that 57% of the population eats white bread and 72% eat wholemeal bread, and adds that both types offer health benefits.

It also shows that a higher percentage of males (61%) compared to females (52%) consumed bread and males over 65 consumed the highest mean daily intake of bread compared to all other groups (1.3 slices).

Speaking at the launch of the report, Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, Dr. Mary McCreery said: “It’s quite fitting that ahead of the annual National Bread Week, we’re seeing the negative comments about bread made by so called “experts”, being challenged by scientific evidence that proves the contrary.”

McCreery continued, “Put simply, it’s OK to eat white bread. In fact, white bread can contribute to a healthy, balanced diet. It’s an affordable, nutritious food that has been consumed for thousands of years.”

“It is low in fat, low in sugar and is a good source of carbohydrates, vitamins, calcium, iron, protein, fiber, and folic acid.”

He stressed, “There are so many untruths about bread in Ireland that are totally unfounded.”

“Like all good foods, bread should be an important part in everyone’s diet. But unlike all foods bread is such good value and is an inexpensive source of many of the nutrients our bodies need, whatever your age. It is one of the most nutritionally valuable foods that money can buy,” McCreery concluded.