Reviewed by Dietitian Casey Wing, RD, CD
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Key Points
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High-protein breads can enhance feelings of fullness, regulate blood sugar, and enrich meals with essential nutrients.
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Products like Nature’s Own Wheat Protein Loaf and Sola Protein Bread provide over 10 grams of protein per slice.
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Many high-protein breads are also rich in fiber, low in sugar, and beneficial for digestive health.
The sandwich is a classic choice for lunch, cherished for its convenience and versatility. When you opt for high-protein bread as your base, not only do you raise the protein content of your meal, but you also promote better blood sugar stability and prolonged satiety. While traditional bread typically offers only 3 to 4 grams of protein per slice, numerous brands now present high-protein alternatives that can double or even triple that figure. To guide your shopping, we consulted dietitians for their top recommendations for high-protein breads. Let’s explore their suggestions and what makes each one a worthy addition to your grocery list.
1. Nature’s Own Wheat Protein Loaf
For the highest protein per slice, consider the Nature’s Own Wheat Protein Loaf. Each slice packs an impressive 11 grams of protein, courtesy of wheat protein isolate and rice protein. Additionally, this bread delivers 4.5 grams of fiber, aiding in sustained fullness and stable blood sugar levels while supporting gut health.
Nutrition info for 1 slice:
2. Sola Protein Bread
Another standout in the bread aisle is the Sola Protein Bread, which offers 10 grams of protein per slice—more than twice as much as traditional whole wheat. This bread not only includes wheat protein but also faba bean protein concentrate, making it a nutritional powerhouse. It boasts 6 grams of fiber and zero sugar per slice, ensuring more stable blood sugar levels. Notably, this bread is higher in sodium compared to others, which is worth considering if you’re adding salty ingredients like cheese or deli meats.
Nutrition info for 1 slice:
3. Dave’s Killer Bread Organic 21 Whole Grains and Seeds Bread
Recommended by Meaghan Ormsby, M.S., RDN, this bread features 6 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber per slice. Its unique blend of 21 whole grains and seeds not only contributes to its fiber content but also adds a delightful texture. The combination of fiber and protein keeps the sandwich satisfying, even with simple toppings like honey butter.
Nutrition info for 1 slice:
4. Silver Hills Bakery Squirrelly Bread
This Squirrelly Bread features sprouted grains, which are soaked to encourage sprouting, enhancing their nutritional value. “Sprouting improves digestibility and nutrient absorption, leading to higher availability of amino acids,” explains Jaime Bachtell-Shelbert, RDN. This bread provides 5 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber per slice, making it a great choice for maintaining steady blood sugar and promoting fullness.
Nutrition info for 1 slice:
5. Pepperidge Farm 15 Grain Bread
If you’re after a widely available higher-protein option, try Pepperidge Farm 15 Grain Bread. Meagan Gibson, M.S., RDN, LDN suggests this choice for its affordability without compromising nutritional content—it offers 5 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber per slice. Additionally, this bread is one of the lower-sodium options available, with only 115 mg of sodium per slice, making it a smart choice to avoid excessive sodium intake from sandwiches.
Nutrition info for 1 slice:
6. Julian Bakery PaleoThin Almond Bread
Finding high-protein bread that’s also gluten-free can be challenging, but the Julian Bakery PaleoThin Almond Bread fits the bill. This gluten-free option boasts 7 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber per slice, thanks to a mixture of almond and coconut flours. It’s also low in sodium, containing just 115 mg per slice.
Nutrition info for 1 slice:
Our Expert Take
To enhance the protein content of your lunch, consider using high-protein bread as the foundation for your sandwich. This simple switch can significantly boost your protein intake by 10 to 22 grams per serving, not including protein-rich fillings. Many of these dietitian-approved breads also offer additional health benefits, being high in fiber and low in added sugars and sodium. Choose one of these options for your next sandwich and enjoy both nutrition and flavor!
For more information, check out the original article on EatingWell
