Whole grain bagels have become increasingly popular as a healthier alternative to traditional white flour bagels. But are whole grain bagels actually good for you? Here is a comprehensive look at the nutritional value, health benefits, and potential downsides of whole grain bagels.
What are Whole Grain Bagels?
Bagels made with 100% whole wheat flour or other whole grains like rye, oats, or multigrain. The main difference from white flour bagels is that whole grain bagels use all parts of the grain kernel – the bran, germ, and endosperm. This provides more fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals compared to refined white flour.
Some examples of whole grains used in whole grain bagels include:
- 100% whole wheat flour
- Sprouted whole wheat
- Rye
- Oats
- Multigrain – combination of whole grains
Nutritional Profile of Whole Grain Bagels
Whole grain bagels are denser and richer in nutrients compared to plain white flour bagels. Here is a nutritional comparison of a standard 2-ounce whole wheat bagel versus a white flour bagel:
| Nutrient | Whole Wheat Bagel | White Flour Bagel |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 240 | 210 |
| Carbohydrates | 44g | 43g |
| Fiber | 4g | 1g |
| Sugars | 4g | 5g |
| Protein | 10g | 7g |
| Fat | 2g | 1g |
As shown, whole grain bagels are higher in fiber, protein, and nutrients like iron, magnesium, zinc, B vitamins, and selenium versus refined white flour bagels. The added bran and germ provide these nutritional boosts.
Fiber
A 2-ounce whole grain bagel provides about 4 grams of dietary fiber, while a white flour bagel contains only 1 gram. Fiber promotes fullness, gut health, and healthy cholesterol levels. The daily recommended fiber intake is 25-30 grams per day.
Protein
Whole grain bagels also pack in more plant-based protein – around 10 grams per serving compared to 7 grams in white flour bagels. Protein helps maintain lean muscle mass and keeps you feeling fuller for longer.
Micronutrients
As a whole grain, the additional bran and germ in whole wheat bagels boosts levels of:
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Zinc
- B vitamins
- Selenium
These micronutrients play important roles in energy metabolism, blood health, immune function, and antioxidant activity.
The Benefits of Whole Grain Bagels
Here are some of the top evidence-based health benefits associated with eating whole grain bagels:
1. Better Blood Sugar Control
The fiber in whole grain bagels causes them to be digested and absorbed more slowly, leading to a slower rise in blood sugar compared to refined grains. The whole grains keep blood sugar levels more stable versus spiking then crashing fast. This makes whole grain bagels a better choice for diabetics and prediabetics.
2. Lower Risk of Heart Disease
Multiple studies link higher whole grain intake with up to a 30% reduced risk of heart disease. The fiber binds to cholesterol and removes it from the body, while the vitamins and minerals improve blood flow. Whole grains also contain plant compounds that reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel function.
3. Healthier Body Weight
The combination of fiber, protein, and slow-burning carbs in whole grain bagels promotes satiety and helps people eat less throughout the day. Eating whole grains is linked to lower body mass index and less abdominal fat, especially when part of an overall healthy diet. Their nutrients may also boost metabolism slightly.
4. Reduced Cancer Risk
Several studies tie high whole grain consumption with a reduced risk of colorectal, stomach, breast, and prostate cancers. The fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals in whole grains offer protective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits that may block cancer growth factors.
5. Increased Longevity
Given the wide-ranging benefits for metabolism, heart health, weight management, and cancer risk, it’s not surprising that eating whole grain bagels and other whole grains is associated with living longer. Whole grains may boost lifespan by 3.4 years according to recent research.
Potential Downsides of Whole Grain Bagels
While whole grain bagels are healthier than white flour bagels overall, there are some potential drawbacks to keep in mind:
Higher in Calories and Carbs
Due to their larger size, higher fiber and protein content, whole grain bagels tend to be more caloric and higher in carbohydrates than white flour bagels. Those watching their weight or calories may need to eat smaller or fewer portions.
Contains Gluten
Most whole grain bagels contain gluten, which can cause issues for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Look for certified gluten-free whole grain bagels made with grains like brown rice.
Higher in Phytates
Whole grains like whole wheat contain phytates, which slightly reduce absorption of certain minerals like iron and zinc. However, whole grains still provide greater overall nutrient levels.
May Cause Digestive Issues
The high fiber amount in whole grain bagels may cause gas, bloating, or discomfort in those unused to a high fiber diet. Introduce more whole grains gradually and drink plenty of water to allow your body to adjust.
Often High in Added Sugar
Check labels carefully, as some whole grain bagel varieties have added sugars to overcome the stronger, heartier flavor. Seek out no sugar added or low-sugar whole grain bagels when possible.
Healthiest Way to Enjoy Whole Grain Bagels
While whole grain bagels have nutritional advantages over white flour bagels, how you eat them also impacts their healthiness. Here are some tips for healthy whole grain bagel enjoyment:
– Opt for smaller or mini bagels to control portions and calories.
– Read labels and choose no sugar added or low-sugar whole grain varieties whenever possible.
– Load up on veggie toppings like avocado, tomatoes, sprouts, cucumbers, onions for more fiber and nutrients.
– Swap out sugary cream cheese for hummus, nut butter, smashed avocado or smoked salmon.
– For sweet bagels, go for light amounts of jam, honey, or fruit instead of heavy cream cheese.
– Use whole grain bagels as the base for breakfast sandwiches with egg, turkey, and veggies.
– Pair whole grain bagels with protein like eggs, nuts, seeds, or Greek yogurt to balance out blood sugar response.
– Eat your bagel as part of a meal containing healthy fats, protein and fiber for satiety.
– Enjoy mini whole grain bagels as part of a snack platter with fruit, cheese, nuts etc.
The Bottom Line
Whole grain bagels made with 100% whole wheat or other whole grains provide more nutrition compared to plain white flour bagels. The added fiber, protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in whole grains offer benefits for blood sugar, heart health, weight management, cancer risk, and longevity. However, those watching calories or carbs should stick to smaller portions. For optimal health, choose no sugar added whole grain bagels and pair with veggie toppings and lean protein sources. Overall, whole grain bagels can be part of a healthy, balanced diet when consumed in moderation and mindfully.
