
Ancient yeast in Ötzi’s gut hints at prehistoric bread
Scientists analyzing Ötzi the Iceman’s gut found ancient yeast, which they cultured and used to bake bread, offering new clues about early fermentation and prehistoric diets.
All articles tagged with #bread

Scientists analyzing Ötzi the Iceman’s gut found ancient yeast, which they cultured and used to bake bread, offering new clues about early fermentation and prehistoric diets.

Dietitians say bread can fit into a blood sugar–friendly diet when you choose high-fiber, whole-grain options. Sprouted 100% whole-grain bread is the top pick due to higher fiber and a potentially lower glycemic response, and its chewy texture can promote satiety, helping to stabilize blood sugar when enjoyed as part of a meal with fiber and protein.

A mouse study from Osaka Metropolitan University found that higher bread and wheat flour intake reduced overall energy expenditure and activated genes that convert carbohydrates to fat, leading to weight and fat gain even with similar calorie intake. The effects were most evident with bread, were reversible when the diet returned to a non-wheat mix, and appeared more in males. While suggestive, researchers caution that human relevance is not yet proven and plan future studies on whole grains, fiber, and meal timing to clarify metabolic responses to carbohydrates.

Dietitians compare sourdough and multigrain bread, noting that sourdough offers probiotics and a lower glycemic index while multigrain provides more fiber; bread quality varies with fermentation and ingredients, and gluten content matters for those with celiac or gluten sensitivity. For weight loss, the higher fiber in multigrain can aid satiety, but portion size ultimately matters; both can fit a nourishing diet when made with whole grains and mindful portions.

A Golden Retriever puppy named Lana gleefully dashes around with a packet of bread, refusing to drop it as her owner pursues in a playful chase video that showcases the breed’s mischievous yet lovable side.

In Central New York, traditional bakeries like Columbus Bakery, Di Lauro’s, Harrison Bakery, and Pasta's Daily Bread are celebrated for their long-standing, high-quality Italian breads, which are essential for holiday dinners. These bakeries have been serving the community for over a century, and their bread is considered a vital part of local holiday traditions, with each bakery offering its unique style of bread that complements festive meals.

Research indicates that consuming whole-grain, rye, or non-white bread may reduce colorectal cancer risk and overall cancer mortality, while white bread is more consistently linked to higher colon and rectal cancer risk. The potential risks from compounds like acrylamide are outweighed by the protective effects of fiber and antioxidants in nutrient-rich breads. Choosing healthier bread options and maintaining a balanced diet are recommended for long-term health.

Certain types of bread, such as whole-grain, sourdough, keto-friendly, rye, and sprouted-grain, can support weight loss and blood sugar management when chosen wisely, with sprouted-grain bread being the top recommended option for its nutritional benefits and gut health support.

Britney Spears surprised fans with a social media video where she enthusiastically talks about her homemade bread, marking a playful and unexpected moment in her online presence, shortly after Taylor Swift shared her baking interests.

Hartford Bakery recalled certain lots of its 'Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf' sold in 12 states, including Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio, due to undeclared hazelnuts caused by a packaging error, posing a risk to nut-allergic consumers.

A batch of Artisan-style bread sold at Kroger and Walmart in 12 states has been recalled due to undeclared hazelnuts, posing a life-threatening allergy risk. The recall involves about 883 units distributed across multiple states, with the company urging consumers to return the product for a refund. No serious injuries have been reported.

A study highlights how wheat's nutritional value can be enhanced through breeding, growing, and baking techniques, emphasizing the importance of consuming whole grains and using specific baking methods like sourdough to maximize nutrient availability in bread.

Nutritionists recommend choosing less processed breads like wholegrain, rye, flaxseed, and authentic sourdough for better health benefits, as they are higher in nutrients and fiber compared to ultra-processed supermarket breads. While white bread is low in nutrients and can cause blood sugar spikes, wholegrain options support gut health and provide sustained energy. Experts advise checking labels for minimal ingredients and considering homemade or bakery options to avoid ultra-processed foods. Demonizing bread can negatively impact mental health and contribute to disordered eating.

Dr. Karan Raj, a UK National Health Service surgeon, shared a TikTok video revealing a hack to make white bread healthier by freezing, thawing, and toasting it, which lowers its Glycemic Index (GI) and causes a more gradual rise in blood sugar levels. This process forms resistant starch, beneficial for gut health. Viewers were intrigued by the bread hack and wondered if the same method could be applied to other foods. The New York Times also supports the idea, stating that letting cooked pasta or rice cool in the refrigerator overnight transforms natural starches into resistant starches, linked to lower blood sugar and better gut health.

The debate over the healthiness of bread continues, with concerns about its impact on weight gain, blood sugar levels, and digestive issues. While some argue that certain types of bread, such as wholegrain, rye, and sourdough, can actually aid in weight management and provide essential nutrients, others caution against the consumption of ultra-processed supermarket loaves due to their lack of fiber and additives. Experts emphasize the importance of choosing high-quality, nutritious bread options and considering individual dietary needs when incorporating bread into one's diet.