Carbohydrates such as bread, pasta, rice potatoes and pulses are all a valuable source of starch, fibre, vitamins and minerals, and are all low in fat as well as being filling so they satisfy your appetite. Aim to have at least six servings a day from this group. Despite competition from alternative carbohydrates such as pasta and rice, bread has maintained its position at the forefront of consumers minds and is high on the shopping list. Filling up on bread makes us less likely to reach for a bar of chocolate or packet of crisps. Many people tend to think that bread is a fattening food but it is the spreads and fillings we use that add on the calories.
All breads contain fibre, but brown soda bread and wholemeal bread contain the most.
It is recommended that you eat 3-4 slices a day. It is important to drink plenty of fluids for fibre to work properly as it absorbs water and swells up so that your body can more easily dispose of the waste contents of food. It may also protect against some heart disease and cancers. It is also important to take regular exercise. Bread has a role to play in your life, being convenient, adaptable, nutritious and tasty.