Bread, often seen as an enemy to weight loss, could actually be a secret weapon in your dieting arsenal, according to one doctor. Dr Karen Alarcón has shared her nifty trick on social media, revealing how freezing bread can transform carbs into fibre.
The expert suggests that those looking to shed pounds should freeze their bread and then heat it up before eating. Not only does this method prolong the life of your loaf, but it also boasts some unexpected health perks.
This temperature change turns carbohydrates into “prebiotic fibre”, which can boost your gut microbiome, regulate glucose levels and reduce blood sugar spikes. These benefits can enhance focus, energy levels and help curb overeating.
Better glucose management can even lead to improved sleep and skin health. Freezing bread also changes its digestible starches into resistant starches, making them harder for your body to break down and more likely to be expelled.
As with all dietary suggestions, the key is moderation and not eating to extremes
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This reduces the calorie intake from the bread while aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness after eating. Diabetes UK has highlighted the benefits of incorporating more resistant starches into your diet, which can boost your fibre intake without altering the food’s taste or texture.
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The charity pointed out that some foods are even “fortified” with resistant starch, offering the same fibre content as brown rice or wholemeal pasta. They suggested a few clever swaps, such as using the frozen bread trick, opting for slightly under-ripe bananas, and cooling potatoes after boiling them.
Freezing bread can extend its lifespan and completely change its nutritional value
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Plus, it is easier for your body to deal with starches when they are heated, so reheating bread after it’s been frozen could lead to less bloating and gas. However, the doctor warned that this trick only works if you start with good quality bread, recommending sourdough and whole grain flour breads as top choices, according to Mujerhoy.
This temperature trick also applies to other popular carbs like pasta and rice, by simply cooking them, then cooling them in the fridge before eating. But remember, no heating or freezing hack can replace the benefits of a balanced diet, which should include plenty of vegetables and minimal ultra-processed items, the doctor advised.