Freezing bread boosts health: A surprising starch effect
Resistant starch is a type of dietary fiber that remains intact because it hasn't broken down due to ripening or heat treatment. This is why dietitians recommend green bananas. Including products with resistant starch in your diet can help you lose weight and reduce abdominal fat. Resistant starch is found not only in bananas but also in other common foods.
Unprocessed starch positively affects intestinal function by eliminating impurities and regulating bowel movements. Studies published on sciencealert.com show an increase in resistant starch in frozen bread. Many people do this unknowingly, not realizing that low temperatures can positively impact the body in this way.
What is resistant starch?
Non-digestible starch found in grains — such as bread, groats, and pasta — breaks down into a digestible form during heat treatment. This form is easy for enzymes to digest and can cause an increase in glucose. The breakdown of starch makes these products easier to digest but not recommended for diabetics and those on weight-loss diets because they can cause a spike in blood sugar. This results in a temporary energy boost, followed by hunger and increased appetite.
However, when exposed to low temperatures, such as freezing, processed starch partially returns to its original form. Consuming products with resistant starch does not cause a spike in blood sugar. Additionally, resistant starch serves as food for probiotic bacteria, which multiply in the colon and can be beneficial for health.
Is frozen bread healthier than fresh?
The consumption of frozen bread is supported by scientific research. Studies examined how eating homemade bread before and after freezing affects blood sugar levels. In the case of fresh bread, blood sugar dropped by about 31%, while frozen slices reduced the glycemic response by about 39%. Unfortunately, this effect was not noticeable with store-bought bread.
What products are rich in resistant starch?
Including products with resistant starch can be a strategy to combat excess weight. Green bananas are a rich source; as they ripen, their starch converts into sugar. Resistant starch is also naturally present in corn and homemade whole grain bread. After cooking and then cooling, foods like potatoes, sweet potatoes, brown rice, groats, beans, and lentils regain their resistant starch.
