Nutrition Facts for Gluten Free Bread

If you have been diagnosed with celiac disease, you may think about having to say goodbye to bread. No more sandwiches, no more, no more bread toast stuffed in Thanksgiving. People with celiac disease can not eat foods that contain gluten, which is a protein found in all foods made with wheat, rye and barley. And although you can not eat more normal wheat or rye bread, there are a number of gluten-free alternatives that you can eat instead. The nutritional composition of gluten free bread varies depending on the type and brand, but knowing the nutritional information can help determine which is the best option for your diet.

Calories can vary between slice and slice

Whether you like the whole grain or a specific brand, the number of calories in a slice of gluten-free bread varies. One slice contains only 65 calories or as much as 100 calories. In comparison, a slice of whole wheat bread normally contains about 80 calories. If you are worried about calories and weight, you may have to walk around until you find a brand that fits your calorie needs.

Carbohydrates and Fiber

Most of the calories from gluten-free bread come from its carbohydrate content. Like calories, the carbohydrate content of gluten-free bread is also variable, ranging from 11 to 21 grams of a slice. The fiber content also varies, ranging from 0.5 to 2 grams per slice. Getting more fiber in your diet lowers cholesterol and risk of heart disease and obesity. For better health, look for gluten-free breads that provide more fiber.

Proteins and fats

The content of protein and fat in gluten free bread does not vary from one brand to another. One slice contains 2 grams of protein and 2 grams of fat. Although the differences are slight, it is interesting to note that gluten free bread is a little higher in fat and low in protein than the bread that contains it, which has 3 grams of protein and 1 gram of fat in one serving. Both protein and fat are essential nutrients you need for good health. Proteins in foods are important for tissue repair and immune health, while fat provides energy and helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins.

Sodium Range

You may not think of bread as a salty food, but all gluten-free breads contain a certain amount of sodium. The amount varies depending on the brand and type, ranging from 120 to 150 milligrams per slice. In comparison, a slice of whole wheat bread contains 145 milligrams of sodium. Having too much sodium in your diet increases the risk of high blood pressure, and it is recommended that you limit your intake to 2,300 milligrams a day, or 1,500 milligrams, if you already have high blood pressure.

Minimal Minerals

Some gluten-free breads provide a small amount of iron and calcium, making up to 4 percent of the daily value of iron and up to 1 percent of the daily value of calcium per serving. Iron helps to produce hemoglobin and helps transport oxygen throughout the body. Adequate intake of calcium helps keep teeth and bones healthy and strong.