LOAF HACKS: Is Sourdough Bread Gluten-Free?
All rise, bread lovers! With the rising interest in sourdough bread, it is no surprise that people have been developing their own starters and trying out recipes at home.
An excellent source of antioxidants, sourdough bread has been dubbed as the healthier alternative to your regular white bread, the question on everyone’s mind: is it really healthier?
No artificial additives
Free from any artificial additives often found in commercially available loaves, sourdough is made from four simple ingredients: flour, salt, water, and yeast starter.
Sourdough bread also contains acetic acids, which naturally prevents the growth of mold. Its natural preservatives eliminate the need for additives that may trigger digestive problems.
Regulates blood sugar levels
Compared to its commercial counterparts, the fermentation process of sourdough bread breaks down starches making your body absorb them slower. The same fermentation process alters the structure of the sourdough bread, making it easier to digest without causing a significant rise in your blood sugar levels.
More nutritious
While bread of all types contains vitamins and minerals, the presence of phytates, or phytic acid, makes it difficult for our bodies to absorb these nutrients easily. Unlike other breads, sourdough bread contains lactic acid which neutralizes phytate levels and aids in easier nutrient absorption.
The higher level of available minerals makes sourdough bread more nutritious than conventional bread.
So, is sourdough bread gluten-free?
The simple answer is no. While sourdough bread is not gluten-free, the process of making sourdough breaks down some of the gluten in the flour fir easier digestion. Think of sourdough as low in gluten than gluten-free.
Simply switching to sourdough alone will not help you with digestive issues, but is a better, healthier alternative to those who suffer from IBS and gluten sensitivity. Sourdough is not suitable for those with coeliac disease. For best results, do consult with your dietician to find a program that suits your needs.
Start your sourdough-baking journey today with Superbaking's Bread Basket Kit. Each kit is complete with all the tools you need to make your own sourdough, try it out at home - we promise, you'll loaf it!
P.S. To be notified on our newest blog posts about recipes, news, and tips on bread baking, and to get access to Superbaking’s exciting special offers and promos on our premium baking tools, become a VIP member by subscribing to our mailing list here or joining our Facebook group community here.