Best Healthy Breads of 2024 (Nutritionist-Reviewed)
While bread may have a bad reputation for causing weight gain, not all breads are bad for you. And to prove it, we’ve rounded up some of the best breads available online and did all the research about how to find healthy options for you. These include sandwich bread, English muffins, and more!
We found that the best healthy breads include only unprocessed, whole-food ingredients and fit into your diet or lifestyle–whether that be vegan or keto, there’s a bread for everyone. Keeping these things in mind, here are some of our favorite healthy breads, with Hero's Seeded Bread taking first place. We've also prepared a buying guide at the end with the help of nutritionist Kara Swanson to help you pick your own bread!
Quick List - Top Healthy Breads
Kara Swanson is a certified nutritionist and the founder of Life Well Lived. She is married to her best friend and the proud mother of three. Her passion is to make nutrition simple+easy+delicious!
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
How to Choose a Healthy Bread – Buying Guide
Read the Ingredients List to Avoid White Wheat and Artificial Ingredients
Choose Alternatives to Processed White Wheat
One more thing to look out for is that enriched bread has still been processed to remove much of the original nutrients, though a fraction of them are added back in. This still isn't great for blood glucose levels, but it is marginally nutritionally better than regular white bread.
The most common healthy bread base is whole wheat, and other great alternatives and additions include sprouted wheat, oat flour, buckwheat, rice flour, and rye.
But no matter what the front of the package says, always be sure to read the ingredients list—you’ll often find that breads that claim to be “whole wheat” or “multi-grain” still contain mostly white flour.
Note, however, that white whole wheat and white bread are not the same thing. White whole wheat is, in fact, made from whole wheat, bran and all - just a different type of wheat from standard red wheat-based whole wheat loaves. It has a milder taste and softer texture, but it still contains the vitamins and minerals present in the original grain.
It can be really overwhelming when you go to the bread aisle because there are so many options to choose from. And labels can be tricky and misleading.
So what exactly should you look for? First, stay away from processed white breads. They have no nutritional value and do nothing for our health. Instead, find a bread that is full of whole grains and has few ingredients.
Look for a Short, Simple Ingredient List
You need to be particularly discerning if you’re looking for a gluten-free or low-carb bread. Often, these types of breads require a little extra help to achieve that satisfyingly bready texture, which usually means extra stabilizers, binding ingredients, and gums.
Some additives to watch out for are potassium bromate, azodicarbonamide, and partially hydrogenated oils that have been linked to cancer or heart disease. On the other hand, don’t shy away from breads that include a long list of seeds and different grains—that kind of complex ingredient list is very good for you.
Ingredients always matter and it's a good habit to read the ingredient list if you don't already. Look for a short list because, after all, bread should only be a handful of ingredients.
If you don't know what an ingredient is, it's probably not something you want to put in your body. Or you can also further educate yourself and look up an ingredient you're not sure about! Knowledge is powerful.
Understand the Different Kinds of Bread
Besides plain old sandwich white bread, there are a plethora of different, healthy options of breads out in the market. We'll go over a few of the healthier options here, but note that types of breads are not limited to what we've listed.
Sprouted Bread for Added Nutrition
Sprouted whole-grain breads are arguably one of the most healthy types of bread out there. They have an advantage over traditional whole-grain breads because the grain used has been allowed to sprout.
This process increases the nutrient profile of the grains, including increasing antioxidants, and even decreases the amount of carbohydrates in it. They're also high in fiber and protein, making them more filling than other breads.
Sprouted bread is a really great option not only because it has an increased nutritional value, but it's high in fiber too. Plus, you're able to absorb the nutrients from the bread better. Next time you're at the store keep an eye out for sprouted bread and grab one to try!
100% Whole-Wheat Bread is High in Fiber
Whole wheat bread is a subset of whole-grain breads and is often a common sight in most supermarkets. These breads are made from the whole grain—bran and germ and all, so they contain all of the nutrients you would find in the original grain.
Since the bran, or the outer layer of the grain is full of fiber, naturally, the flour produced is also high in fiber. And like sprouted breads, whole-wheat is filling and nutritious, but be sure to double-check the ingredients list, since some bread are labeled whole-wheat despite being made mostly of refined flours.
Choosing a 100% whole-wheat bread is a great idea because it's loaded with fiber. And we know from research that high fiber foods aid in weight loss, keep you feeling fuller longer, and keep you regular. Small tweaks like buying a healthier bread can really add up big time when you're trying to lose weight and creating a healthy lifestyle.
Sourdough Bread Contains Prebiotic Content
Sourdough is known for its slightly acidic, sour taste, which is developed through the fermentation process the dough goes through. However, due to this, sourdough contains healthy probiotics that are beneficial for gut health.
Likewise, the fermentation process also helps decrease the amount of phytate acid in the bread, allowing you to more readily absorb healthy minerals contained within the bread. It also has a low Glycemic Index, so it won't spike blood sugar levels as much as other breads.
And though sourdough can be made of either white or whole-wheat flour, whole-wheat is the healthier, more nutrient-rich option.
Sourdough might actually be my favorite bread! It's so delicious and is actually really healthy too. What's great about sourdough is that it contains probiotics to aid in gut health and has a lower glycemic index so your blood sugar levels stay stable. Sourdough is great any way you eat it, but I love toasting it and making chickpea avocado toast with it.
Rye Breads Are Considered More Nutritious Than Wheat Breads
100% rye breads are the way to go, as most rye breads can still be made of a combination of wheat and rye flour. But rye bread, in general, is considered more nutritious than traditional wheat flour-based options.
Rye contains a high amount of soluble fiber, which keeps you fuller and more satisfied for longer, slowing down your body's digestive process and releasing less insulin, so it has less of an impact on your blood sugar levels.
If you want to make your rye bread even more healthy, then you can also choose sprouted rye bread, since the sprouting process further increases the fiber content of the final product.
We traditionally stick to the same bread every week, but it's a good idea to branch out and try something new like rye bread. Rye is really nutritionally dense and is a great way to change and spice up your toasting game.
Look for a Balanced Nutrient Profile
For a More Filling Snack, Choose Bread High in Fiber and Protein
Try to aim for 3 grams and above per slice for both. Just make sure the fiber and protein come from natural, whole ingredients and not concentrate. Grains and seeds—especially flax- and sesame seeds—are solid options that contribute to both heart and muscle health.
Choose a bread that's high in fiber and nutrient-dense ingredients and you will stay fuller longer and spend less time in the pantry.
A great snack that is popular in our house is a piece of toast topped with peanut butter, chia seeds, and mashed raspberries. It's a yummy and filling snack that's full of fiber from the bread and chia seeds, healthy fats from the peanut butter, and antioxidants from the raspberries.
Don’t Forget to Pay Attention to Fat and Sugar
You can also choose a loaf without added sugar by checking the ingredients list for sugars, which typically end in "-ose," such as sucrose and glucose.
Breads didn't originally have sugar in them, but in the culture we live in now, it's almost always assumed that sugar (a cheap additive) is added to cause us to want more of it. So be careful to pay attention to how much sugar is in each slice of bread.
10 Best Healthy Breads
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Type | Main Ingredients | 100% Whole Wheat | Fat | Sugar | Fiber | Protein | Amount of Loaves | |||||
1 | Hero Hero Seeded Bread | | Delicious Bread with Benefits | Seeded | Water, Resistant Wheat Starch, Wheat Protein | 2.5 g | 0 g | 12 g | 6 g | 4 | ||
2 | Probar Banana Nut Bread | | Non-GMO and Allergen-Friendly | Banana Nut | Tapioca Syrup, Oats, Cashew Butter | 9 g | 10 g | 2 g | 4 g | 12 Bars | ||
3 | Hero Find Your Hero Bundle | | Bundle of 4 Breads | Seeded Bread, White Bread, Hamburger Buns, & Hot Dog Buns | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies | 4 | ||
4 | Mestemacher Natural Pumpernickel | | Delicious Pumpernickel Bread | Pumpernickel | Whole Kernel Rye, Wholemeal Rye Flour | 1 g | 3 g | 9 g | 3 g | 2 | ||
5 | Lowcarb Avenue Low Carb Everything Bread | | Hearty Texture with a Nutty Flavor | Keto Bread | Water, Vital Wheat Gluten, Almond Flour | 3 g | 0 g | 3 g | 7 g | 2 | ||
6 | Joseph's Middle East Bakery Flax, Oat Bran & Whole Wheat Pita Bread | | Best For Pita Bread | Pita Bread | Less than 2% of Soybean Oil, Oat Bran | 1.5 g | 0 g | 2 g | 6 g | 2 | ||
7 | Shibolim Shibolim FlaxSeed Bread | | Nutrition Packed Flaxseed Bread | FlaxSeed | Flaxseed Flour | 2.5 g | 0 g | 2 g | 5 g | 2 | ||
8 | Toufayan Bakeries Whole Wheat Smart Pockets Pita Bread | | Whole Wheat Bread Pockets | Whole Wheat | Whole wheat flour, water, wheat gluten | unknown | unknown | 4 g | 5 g | 3 | ||
9 | Mestemacher Protein Bread | | High Protein Bread | Protein Bread | Whole Rye Flour | 6.3 g | unknown | unknown | 10 g | 9 | ||
10 | Alma Baking Alma Multi-Seed, Traditional, and Whole Grain Multipack | | Variety of Flavors with Nutritious Seeds | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies | 3 | ||
Delicious Bread with Benefits
Savor the hearty texture and rich taste of Hero Seeded Bread, perfect for topping with almond butter or creating a classic club sandwich. With just 1g net carbs, 0g sugar, and only 60 calories per slice, it’s a pantry staple that supports your healthy lifestyle. Infused with heart-healthy olive oil, this bread combines indulgence with nutrition.
Each slice packs 6g of protein and 12g of dietary fiber, providing prebiotic fiber and essential protein while keeping net carbs and sugar to a minimum. Made with natural ingredients, this plant-based bread fits seamlessly into various recipes, from avocado toast to a classic chicken salad sandwich. Keep it fresh for up to 10 days or freeze for up to four months. Enjoy a delicious, fluffy texture every time by allowing it to reach room temperature before eating.
| Main Ingredients | Water, Resistant Wheat Starch, Wheat Protein |
|---|---|
| 100% Whole Wheat | |
| Fat | 2.5 g |
| Fiber | 12 g |
| Amount of Loaves | 4 |
Non-GMO and Allergen-Friendly
Crafted with natural oats, nuts, and seeds, this product is designed to provide safe and nourishing nutrients for your body. Enjoy the benefits of wholesome ingredients, knowing you're making a healthy choice.
All PROBAR products are Non-GMO Project Verified, ensuring they're free from genetically modified organisms. With gluten-free and soy-free ingredients, these bars are sustainably sourced, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions or anyone seeking a cleaner, healthier snack.
| Main Ingredients | Tapioca Syrup, Oats, Cashew Butter |
|---|---|
| 100% Whole Wheat | |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Amount of Loaves | 12 Bars |
HeroFind Your Hero Bundle
| Protein | Varies |
|---|
- Type
- Seeded Bread, White Bread, Hamburger Buns, & Hot Dog Buns
- Sugar
- Varies
Bundle of 4 Breads
The Find Your Hero bundle offers a selection of best-selling bread products, including one loaf of Classic White Bread, one loaf of Seeded Bread, and packs of eight Burger Buns and eight Hot Dog Buns. Perfect for those new to Hero, this assortment delivers delicious, ultra-low net carb options with just 0-1g net carbs, 0g sugar, and under 100 calories per serving. Each product is made with heart-healthy olive oil for added benefits.
Enjoy the extra nutrition these baked goods provide, with 5-11g of protein and 11-22g of dietary fiber per serving. Made with natural ingredients, these plant-based breads and buns offer a wholesome option for any meal. For the best experience, consume within ten days or freeze for up to four months. Let them reach room temperature before enjoying that fresh, fluffy taste.
| Main Ingredients | Varies |
|---|---|
| 100% Whole Wheat | |
| Fat | Varies |
| Fiber | Varies |
| Amount of Loaves | 4 |
MestemacherNatural Pumpernickel
| Protein | 3 g |
|---|
- Type
- Pumpernickel
- Sugar
- 3 g
Delicious Pumpernickel Bread
| Main Ingredients | Whole Kernel Rye, Wholemeal Rye Flour |
|---|---|
| 100% Whole Wheat | |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Fiber | 9 g |
| Amount of Loaves | 2 |
Lowcarb AvenueLow Carb Everything Bread
| Protein | 7 g |
|---|
- Type
- Keto Bread
- Sugar
- 0 g
Hearty Texture with a Nutty Flavor
Low Carb Avenue's Low Carb Bread features a dense, hearty texture that mimics whole-grain bread, making it perfect for substantial sandwiches or as toast. Its slightly nutty taste and wholesome ingredients provide a satisfying bite while keeping your keto goals intact. Handmade and baked fresh twice a week in a local bakery, this artisan bread uses a seeded dough rich in omega-3s and 100% non-GMO ingredients, ensuring a natural, savory flavor without modified wheat starch.
This guilt-free bread offers 14 grams of protein in just two slices, making it one of the most nutritious fitness breads on the market. With zero sugar, no cholesterol, and nearly zero carbs, it’s a great addition to a keto diet.
| Main Ingredients | Water, Vital Wheat Gluten, Almond Flour |
|---|---|
| 100% Whole Wheat | |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Amount of Loaves | 2 |
Joseph's Middle East BakeryFlax, Oat Bran & Whole Wheat Pita Bread
| Protein | 6 g |
|---|
- Type
- Pita Bread
- Sugar
- 0 g
Best For Pita Bread
These pita breads come in 2 packages, each with 6.5" diameter rounds, offering a healthier option with only 1.5g of fat and 60 calories per serving. With 7g of net carbs, these pita breads are a good source of Omega-3 ALA, making them a nutritious addition to your meals. They are vegan and kosher, catering to various dietary preferences.
Pita bread is a versatile staple, perfect for sandwiches, dips, or as a base for creative toppings. These flatbreads ship fresh, not frozen, so it's recommended to consume them within two weeks. If you need to extend their freshness, freeze the unopened packages for up to one year, with a 16-day shelf life after defrosting.
| Main Ingredients | Less than 2% of Soybean Oil, Oat Bran |
|---|---|
| 100% Whole Wheat | |
| Fat | 1.5 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Amount of Loaves | 2 |
ShibolimShibolim FlaxSeed Bread
| Protein | 5 g |
|---|
- Type
- FlaxSeed
- Sugar
- 0 g
Nutrition Packed Flaxseed Bread
With just 1 net carb and 9 grams of protein per slice, this flax bread is a perfect option for those following a keto or vegan diet. It contains zero grams of sugar, making it a nutritious and guilt-free choice for any meal.
Enjoy a delicious, healthy slice of flax bread without any guilt. For best results, toast the bread to your liking before consumption. While freezing upon receipt is recommended, it's not required—just store it in a cool, dry place and freeze after opening for extended freshness.
| Main Ingredients | Flaxseed Flour |
|---|---|
| 100% Whole Wheat | |
| Fat | 2.5 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Amount of Loaves | 2 |
Toufayan BakeriesWhole Wheat Smart Pockets Pita Bread
| Protein | 5 g |
|---|
- Type
- Whole Wheat
- Sugar
- unknown
Whole Wheat Bread Pockets
Smart Pockets are shipped fresh, so to maintain their quality, freeze the packages upon arrival. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 8 months, and you can thaw individual pockets as needed. Once thawed, it's best to use them within 5 days for maximum freshness.
These pre-cut, soft pita pockets are not only easy to stuff thanks to their square shape, but they are also a healthier option. They are cholesterol-free, trans-fat-free, low in sodium, kosher pareve, and naturally vegan. Each order includes three packages, with six pitas per package, giving you a total of 18 pitas.
| Main Ingredients | Whole wheat flour, water, wheat gluten |
|---|---|
| 100% Whole Wheat | |
| Fat | unknown |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Amount of Loaves | 3 |
MestemacherProtein Bread
| Protein | 10 g |
|---|
- Type
- Protein Bread
- Sugar
- unknown
High Protein Bread
Mestemacher Protein Bread offers a nourishing start to your day, made with natural whole grains freshly ground at the Mestemacher Mill. Each slice packs 10g of protein, helping you stay satisfied and energized throughout the day. Rich in fiber, this bread supports a healthy digestive system, may help lower cholesterol, and even reduce the risk of heart disease. It’s a perfect choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet, offering not just great taste but also significant health benefits.
Crafted with only the finest natural ingredients, Mestemacher Protein Bread is free from preservatives and relies on a special pasteurization process for long-lasting freshness. Whether enjoyed fresh or toasted, it’s a versatile option that can easily be paired with your favorite toppings for a complete, satisfying meal. Plus, Mestemacher's commitment to ethical food production means every loaf supports not just your health, but also social initiatives aimed at improving the greater good.
| Main Ingredients | Whole Rye Flour |
|---|---|
| 100% Whole Wheat | |
| Fat | 6.3 g |
| Fiber | unknown |
| Amount of Loaves | 9 |
Alma BakingAlma Multi-Seed, Traditional, and Whole Grain Multipack
| Protein | Varies |
|---|
- Type
- Varies
- Sugar
- Varies
Variety of Flavors with Nutritious Seeds
Alma’s Multi-Seed Multipack features a delightful variety of flavors and textures, with each loaf enriched by a nutritious blend of seeds. Offering a slightly nutty, hearty experience, this bread is perfect for toasting or pairing with dips, while its whole grain goodness provides added fiber and nutrients.
While Alma stands out by delivering exceptional taste alongside significant nutritional benefits, it's on the higher end of net carbs, with 6g per slice. The low glycemic index helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and the combination of lower carbs and increased satiety ensures you feel full longer. It can be stored in the freezer for up to six months, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome, satisfying option anytime.
| Main Ingredients | Varies |
|---|---|
| 100% Whole Wheat | |
| Fat | Varies |
| Fiber | Varies |
| Amount of Loaves | 3 |
Easy Healthy Sandwich Filling Recipes
Looking for healthy fillings to go with your healthy bread? It's so easy to make substitutions or use low-fat options to make a healthier tuna salad or egg salad that still tastes great. Here's one avocado-based filling from The Cooking Foodie. Note that the video for the Avocado Egg Sandwich runs from 0:00 to 1:56.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 a ripe avocado
- 1-2 tsp of lemon juice
- 1 hard-boiled egg
- 1 tbsp chopped chives or green onions
- salt, black pepper, and paprika to taste
Directions:
- Scoop out 1/2 a ripe avocado into a bowl and add the lemon juice.
- Mash the avocado and lemon juice together until smooth in consistency.
- Chop and dice the hard-boiled egg into small bits.
- Add the egg into the avocado mixture.
- Add the chives/green onions, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Mix until combined.
- Put onto the sandwich bread of your choice and enjoy!
Another yummy recipe I'm obssessed with is topping a toasted piece of whole-grain bread with dairy-free cream cheese, cucumber slices, and (lots of) dill! It's a simple and delicious snack that keeps me satisfied.
Make the Healthy Switch With These Other Products
The healthiest thing to do is to eat in moderation, get regular exercise, and sleep well; but, in terms of eating, it can be difficult when there are so many temptations out there. However, even tempting, sugary and snack foods have healthier options, so you don't have to feel bad about eating them! Take a look at the links below for options to consider.
Top 5 Healthy Breads
No. 1: Hero｜Hero Seeded Bread
No. 2: Probar｜Banana Nut Bread
No. 3: Hero｜Find Your Hero Bundle
No. 4: Mestemacher｜Natural Pumpernickel
No. 5: Lowcarb Avenue｜Low Carb Everything Bread
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Most ViewedFeatured Rankings Similar to Healthy Breads
New ArrivalsFeatured Rankings Similar to Healthy Breads
Search by category
Health
Body care products, Health accessories, Health foods and supplementsBeauty
Blushes, Bronzers, CleansersHome goods
Bath supplies, Ceremonial occasion supplies, Cleaning suppliesHome electronics
Air conditioners and coolers, AV accessories, Blenders and food processorsPC
Computer supplies, Desktop computers, TabletsCamera
Camera bags and backpacks, Camera supplies, Digital single lens camerasFood and drinks
Jams and Jellies, Alcohol, BreadsKitchen
Coffee and tea products, Cooking utensils, CupsFashion
Footwear products, Men's shoes, SandalsAccessories
Wristwatches, Accessories and jewelry, Umbrellas and parasolsKids and baby
Baby carriers, Baby food, Baby formulaInterior
Beds, Beds and bedding, ChairsHobbies
Aromatherapy products, Art supplies, Arts and collectiblesOutdoor
Barbecue grills and fire pits, Camping beds and cots, Camping gearHome, garden, and tools
Agricultural materials and gardening supplies, Exterior and garden furniture, Materials and repairing agentsSports and fitness
Sports shoes, Surfing supplies, Badminton suppliesPets
Bird and small animal supplies, Cat Supplies, Dog SuppliesMedia
Books and magazines, CD, Children's books, picture books and illustrated encyclopediasGames
Gaming accessories, Nintendo Switch games, PC gamesApps
Business apps, Cooking apps, Dating appsAutomotive
Car accessories, Car navigation systemsGifts
Christmas gifts, Father's Day gifts, Gifts for childrenMobile devices
Mobile phone and smartphone accessories, Wearable devices and smart watches