If you’ve ever choked down a glass of thick, orange-flavored fiber supplement, I have good news for you: There’s a better way! And it’s not hiding in a plastic container on a drugstore shelf—it’s in a warm, wholesome loaf of fresh-milled bread.
I know an elderly gentleman who’s living proof. On days when he eats fresh-milled bread, he doesn’t need his fiber supplement at all. Coincidence? I think not. Because when you eat real, whole-grain bread—made from freshly milled wheat—you’re not just getting a delicious slice of homemade goodness. You’re getting a fiber-packed powerhouse that keeps your digestion happy and your blood sugar steady.
What’s the Big Deal About Fiber?
Fiber is like your digestive system’s best friend. It keeps things moving, helps prevent constipation, and supports gut health. But it’s not just about staying regular. High-fiber diets have been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol, and even support heart health.
The problem? Most bread on store shelves has been stripped of fiber. When wheat is refined to make white flour, the bran and germ—where most of the fiber and nutrients live—are removed. What’s left is basically empty carbs that spike blood sugar and leave you hungry an hour later.
And here’s something crazy: The glycemic index of white flour is actually higher than sugar! That means it spikes your blood sugar even faster than straight-up table sugar—yikes.
Fresh-Milled Bread: The Underrated Superfood
Fresh-milled whole grain bread, on the other hand, keeps all the good stuff intact. That means:
- More fiber to support digestion and keep you feeling full longer.
- Better blood sugar control since fiber slows down the absorption of carbohydrates.
- Heart-healthy benefits from the natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in whole grains.
And the best part? You get all these benefits without having to gag down a glass of artificial fiber sludge.
The Case for Ditching Fiber Supplements
Look, I get it. Fiber supplements are convenient. But if you have access to the real thing, why not go for something that actually tastes good? Real food always beats a lab-made alternative. Plus, fiber from whole grains comes with bonus nutrients that supplements just can’t match.
So next time you feel like reaching for the Metamucil, consider this: A slice (or two) of fresh-milled bread might just do the trick—no mixing, no choking it down, and definitely no weird aftertaste.
Your gut (and your taste buds) will thank you.
Risen Bakery Co. of Chillicothe Ohio