We are all aware of the existence of different types of bread, but sometimes we cannot choose between wheat bread and multigrain bread as an alternative for healthy bread. which of all kinds is considered to be a healthy bread.
These two breads are popular staples that are known for their distinct flavours and health benefits. While multigrain bread employs a blend of grains and nuts for a dense texture and nutty flavour, wheat bread is made mainly with whole wheat flour, which gives it a soft texture and a subtle sweetness. Each has special health benefits—from better heart health to better digestion.
This article will make it easier for you to clear the confusion of wheat bread vs multigrain bread. We’ll go through these breads’ flavour, texture, nutritional profile, health benefits, and a few easy recipes to determine which is the healthier option for you.
What is wheat bread?
Bread prepared mainly with wheat flour is called wheat bread and is a staple in most cultures. The origin of the bread is not certain, but it is known that even ancient civilisations like Egypt and Rome enjoyed it.
Wheat bread can be enjoyed plain, toasted, as sandwich bread, or for numerous other purposes. It is typically chewy and soft in texture with a mild, sweet flavour.
How is it made?
The first step to making wheat bread is to mix whole wheat flour, water, yeast, and salt to form a dough. Then, the dough is kneaded to form gluten, a network of proteins that gives bread its structure.
A warm environment is used to let the kneaded dough rise or ferment since the yeast will be releasing carbon dioxide gas that causes the dough to expand.
Once the dough has risen, it is shaped into loaves and placed in baking pans. The loaves are then baked in a hot oven to produce soft and sweet wheat bread.
What is multigrain bread?
Multigrain bread is a combination of several grains and seeds: wheat, rye, oats, barley, corn, flax seeds, sunflowers, pumpkins, and sesame seeds. It is a type of bread style that originated in Mesopotamia over 4,000 years ago as the first mix of grains for the preparation of bread.
It’s a popular choice for sandwiches, toast, and other meals due to its nutty flavour profile that is a little sweet. Compared to wheat bread, it has a dense, chewy texture that is attributed to the extra grains and seeds.
How is it made?
The first step is combining different grains, including wheat, oats, rye, and seeds, with yeast and water. Bubbles form because of fermentation, and they contribute to the fluffiness of the bread.
Then the dough is kneaded and will produce gluten, a structural protein. The dough rises once again after shaping when tastes can develop.
Then, it is baked in a high oven until golden brown and crispy to make a tasty and nourishing bread that is loaded with various grains and seeds.
Nutritional comparison: Wheat Bread vs Multigrain Bread
Both wheat bread and multigrain bread contain good amounts of nutrients like proteins, vitamins, fibre, carbohydrates, and so on. Here is the detailed table of nutritional comparison of wheat bread and multigrain bread.
These values are per 100 grams.
| Nutrients | Wheat Bread | Multigrain Bread |
| Calories | 240-260 Kcal | 250-270 Kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45-50 g | 42-45 g |
| Fibre | 2-4 g | 4-6 g |
| Protein | 7-9 g | 8-10 g |
| Fat | 2-4 g | 4-6 g |
| Sugar | 3-5 g | 3-5 g |
| Calcium | 80-100 mg | 100-120 mg |
| Iron | 2-3 mg | 2-3 mg |
| Magnesium | 25-40 mg | 30-50 mg |
| Sodium | 300-400 mg | 300-400 mg |
| Vitamins | Moderate B1, B3 and B6 | High in Vitamin B1, B3 and B6 |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Negligible | 0.2-0.5 g (if seeds like flax seeds are added) |
Key Takeaways
Multigrain bread: It could be a relatively richer bread in nutrients such as fibre, protein, and healthier fats depending on the combination of grains and seeds.
Wheat bread: If the main ingredient in this bread is whole wheat flour, this bread can be a good choice since it is usually more uniform in its nutrition.
Which is healthier, wheat bread or multigrain bread?
The healthiness of wheat bread vs multigrain bread depends on the specific ingredients and nutritional content.
Whole wheat flour contains the bran, germ, and endosperm of the wheat kernel, which is typically used to make wheat bread.
It, therefore, is a good source of fibre, essential vitamins, and minerals such as B vitamins, iron, and magnesium.
Due to its high fibre content, whole wheat bread is generally considered a healthy food since it promotes digestion, regulates blood sugar levels, and helps in the maintenance of heart health.
On the other hand, Multigrain bread is made of many kinds of grains and seeds: wheat, oats, barley, millet, flaxseed, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc.
But it is important to note that not all multigrain breads are the same. Some lack fibre and other vital nutrients as they are manufactured from processed grains instead of whole grains.
To find out the health benefits of multigrain bread, one needs to check whether it has the label “whole grain” or “100% whole grain.
Multigrain bread made from whole grains offers the same benefits as whole wheat bread. These include better digestion, increased heart health, and sustained energy.
Both wheat bread and multigrain bread are healthier options if they are made with whole grains. However, your selection of bread between these two depends on your specific needs, taste preferences, and availability of bread.
While multigrain bread is considered a healthier option due to the presence of grains and seeds such as wheat, oats, barley, millet, flaxseed, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds.
For the healthiest choice, always read the labels to make sure the bread you choose has the fewest added sugars and preservatives.
Health benefits
Wheat bread
Loaded with fibre: Wheat bread is an excellent source of dietary fibre that regulates blood sugar, supports digestion, and even boosts feelings of fullness.
Essential nutrients: It contains essential minerals and vitamins that contribute to general well-being, including iron, magnesium, and B vitamins.
Antioxidants: Antioxidants in wheat bread prevent damage that free radicals cause to the cells.
Lower risk of chronic diseases: Several studies have demonstrated that regular consumption of wheat bread lowers the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and several cancers.
Multigrain bread
Loaded with fibre: Compared to regular wheat bread, multigrain bread contains more fibre, which aids digestion and supports gut health.
Varied nutrients: Since multigrain bread contains varied grains and seeds, there is a higher content of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Several multigrain breads might contain flax and chia seeds, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and great for heart health.
Lower risk of chronic diseases: Like wheat bread, multigrain bread may help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and many forms of cancer.
Recipes
Here are the quick and healthy recipes using wheat bread and multigrain bread.
Wheat Bread vegetable Sandwich
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of wheat bread
- 1 sliced cucumber
- 1 sliced tomato
- 1 little onion, cut
- 4 leaves of lettuce
- 2 tablespoons of low-fat cream cheese or hummus
- A pinch of pepper and salt
- Optional: 2 boiled, sliced eggs.
Instructions:
Spread each bread slice with a layer of cream cheese or hummus.
Layer the lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and onion on two bread slices.
Season the vegetables lightly with salt and pepper.
Add the boiled egg pieces over the vegetables if using.
Cover with the remaining slices of bread, press softly, and cut in half.
Serve immediately with some fresh fruit or yoghurt dip on the side.
Multigrain bread avocado toast
Ingredients:
- 2 multigrain bread slices
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of olive oil
- A pinch of pepper and salt
- Optional toppings: poached egg, chilli flakes, or cherry tomatoes
Instructions:
Preheat the multigrain bread until it crisps up.
Scoop the avocado into a bowl and smash it with a fork.
Mix well after adding lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to the mashed avocado.
Put the avocado mixture on the toasted, toasted multigrain bread evenly.
If desired, garnish with a poached egg, chilli flakes, or cherry tomato slices.
Serve immediately for a hearty and healthy meal.
Conclusion
Deciding between wheat bread vs multigrain bread depends on nutritional objectives, dietary requirements, and personal preference. Wheat bread helps promote general health by offering a steady supply of fibre, vital vitamins, and minerals.
In addition, multigrain bread provides a number of flavours and nutrients, especially when it is prepared from whole grains.
Always read labels for the healthiest option to make sure there aren’t many extra sugars or preservatives. A well-rounded and healthful diet can include both types of bread, regardless of your preference for the rich texture of multigrain or the simplicity of wheat bread.