Bread is a dietary staple in many cultures. It is a great way to get some of your daily needs for carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, and minerals. Too much of anything can be bad however, and this is especially true when it comes to bread. The side effects of eating bread regularly may be a concern for some people. Below are some potential side effects of eating bread regularly that you should know.
1. Weight Gain:
According to healthline, One of the main side effects of eating bread regularly is weight gain. Bread has a high carbohydrate content and is considered a starchy food. Eating too many carbohydrates can lead to weight gain due to the calories they contain. The glycemic index of most breads is high enough to cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. When this happens, insulin is released to counter the rise and this can lead to appetite increases and feelings of hunger.
2. Digestive problems:
Eating too much bread can also cause digestive problems. Eating a lot of bread can lead to feeling bloated and gassy. This may be due to the fact that bread is not easily digested and the body has to work harder to break down the starches. The result may be digestive distress that can cause symptoms such as cramping, gas, and diarrhoea.
3. Nutritional deficiencies:
Eating too much bread can also cause nutritional deficiencies. Bread does contain some amount of vitamins and minerals, but not enough to meet your daily requirements. It is low in essential fatty acids, iron, and calcium. A deficiency in any of these nutrients can cause health problems.
4. Blood sugar spikes:
Eating too much bread can also cause spikes in blood sugar levels. White bread is especially linked to this, as it has a high glycemic index rating. This means it can cause a rapid rise in blood glucose levels that can be difficult to control. Over time, high blood sugar levels can lead to type 2 diabetes.
5. Allergies and food intolerances:
Eating bread can also trigger allergies and food intolerances. Many people are sensitive to gluten, which is a protein found in some grains such as wheat and barley. Eating bread that contains gluten can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, and vomiting. There may also be an allergic response that can cause hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling.
Eating bread regularly is a part of many people's diets around the world and is generally considered harmless. However, there can be potential side effects of eating bread regularly that you should be aware of. Eating too much bread can lead to weight gain, digestive problems, nutritional deficiencies, blood sugar spikes, and can trigger allergies and food intolerances. If you are concerned about the side effects of eating bread regularly, speak with your doctor or nutritionist