In Americans' quest for healthier dietary options, sprouted grains have garnered significant attention.
But are sprouted grains really healthier than traditional grains and bread choices?
Fox News Digital spoke with two food experts about what makes sprouted grains different, plus their benefits, potential drawbacks and whether they should replace the bread in your kitchen.
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Read on for a food-friendly explanation.
Sprouted grains are whole grains that have begun to germinate, which means they've started the process of sprouting but haven't yet developed into full plants, said Dr. Sarah Heckler, a food expert with Anne Till Nutrition Group in Raleigh, North Carolina.
"This process is initiated by soaking the grains in water until they sprout," said Heckler.
The germination process breaks down some of the starch, she added, which makes the nutrients in the grain more accessible and easier to digest.
If you want more nutritious grain options, sprouting grains are a good option.
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"Sprouted grains are worth seeking out due to their enhanced nutritional profile, digestibility and added fiber benefits," noted Heckler.
Also, they often contain more vitamins (like B vitamins and vitamin C), minerals, antioxidants and dietary fiber compared to their non-sprouted counterparts.
Sprouted grain products are often kept in the freezer to preserve their freshness and prevent spoilage.
"Since they contain more moisture than traditional grains, they are more susceptible to mold and bacteria growth if left at room temperature for extended periods," Heckler said.
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Also, freezing sprouted grains helps extend their shelf life without the need for preservatives.
Here are three nutritional wins, according to Heckler.
Nutrient density. Sprouting increases the availability of nutrients, making sprouted grains richer in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
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Digestibility. The germination process breaks down some starches and proteins, making sprouted grains easier to digest. This can be particularly beneficial for those with sensitive digestive systems.
Glycemic index. Sprouted grains tend to have a lower glycemic index, meaning they have a less dramatic impact on blood sugar levels, which is advantageous for managing diabetes.
Low-carb diet. Sprouted grains still contain carbohydrates, but they often have a lower glycemic index than traditional grains, making them a better option for those managing blood sugar levels, Heckler said.
Low-gluten diet. Sprouting can reduce gluten content slightly, she noted, but sprouted grains are not suitable for those with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity.
Diabetic diet. The lower glycemic index of sprouted grains makes them a suitable choice for diabetic diets, said Heckler.
Low-fat diet. Sprouted grains naturally fit into a low-fat diet, as they do not contain added fats, she said.
Although there are benefits to sprouted grains, there are also drawbacks.
Heckler summarized why some people prefer to skip sprouted grains.
Cost. Sprouted grain products are generally more expensive than traditional grain products because of additional processing involved.
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Shelf life. They have a shorter shelf life and often need to be kept in the freezer to stay fresh.
Foodborne illness. Sprouted grains can pose a higher risk of foodborne illness compared to non-sprouted grains. "The sprouting process requires warm, moist conditions, which are also ideal for the growth of harmful bacteria such as E. coli and salmonella," said Heckler.
In grocery stores, you can find a variety of products made from sprouted grains, including the following:
If you're looking to enhance your diet with more nutrient-dense options and don't mind the higher cost and storage requirements, sprouted-grain bread can be a great replacement for traditional bread.
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However, it's essential to consider personal dietary needs and preferences.
Additionally, Dr. Lisa Valente, a Healthline food expert who is based in Burlington, Vermont, said when deciding on what to purchase, it's prudent to read labels carefully.
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"I think people should look at the bread they buy and make sure it has whole grain listed in the ingredients, preferably the first one, that it has some fiber, and isn't too high in added sugar," Valente told Fox News Digital.
"Many whole grain breads add sugar to mask the taste."
So, while it's important to compare labels and find bread that you enjoy that hits some key nutritional targets, Valente cautioned that sprouted grain bread won't be for everyone.
"It might be a product that is nice to try, or you might love it," she added. "I personally love sprouted grain toast for breakfast, but don't love the texture for lunch sandwiches."
