Are you a bagel lover but concerned about its nutritional value? Look no further as we dive into the world of plain bagels. On average, a plain bagel serving (85g) contains 240 calories, making it a relatively calorie-dense food option. However, it's not all bad news, so keep reading to find out why.

A plain bagel, at its core, is a combination of flour, water, sugar, salt, and yeast. It is a low-fat food option and is a relatively good source of protein, vitamins and minerals too. An 85-gram serving of a plain bagel contains 9 grams of protein, 48 grams of carbohydrates, and 2 grams of fat.

Let's look at some practical tips to make a plain bagel a healthier food choice for you.

Bagel Nutrition Facts

While plain bagels are a low-fat food, they are relatively high in carbohydrates and calories. Therefore, it should be enjoyed in moderation. An 85-g serving of a plain bagel provides 10% of the daily recommended intake of iron, 6% of the daily recommended intake of calcium, and 2% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin A. Additionally, plain bagels are relatively high in sodium, with an average serving containing around 460 mg. Therefore, individuals who are on a low-sodium diet should keep this in mind while consuming plain bagels. Knowing the nutritional facts about plain bagels can help individuals make informed and healthier food choices.

Difference between plain and flavored bagels

In addition to plain bagels, there are a variety of flavored bagels available in the market, such as cinnamon and raisin, sesame, and onion bagels. These flavored bagels derive their taste from the additives they contain, such as sugar or seeds. However, these additives increase the calorie and carbohydrate count of the bagels, making them less healthy than plain bagels. Therefore, individuals who are concerned about their calorie and carbohydrate intake should opt for plain bagels instead of flavored ones. It's always a good idea to read the food label before consuming any food product to know what you are consuming and making informed choices.

Are bagels healthy?

Plain bagels are a relatively healthy food option when consumed in moderation. They are low in fat and high in carbohydrates and protein. Additionally, they are a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin A. However, individuals who are concerned about their calorie and carbohydrate intake should consume plain bagels in moderation, as they can be a relatively high-calorie food option. It's always a good idea to consume plain bagels with healthier food options such as green vegetables or fresh fruits to balance out the calorie and carbohydrate content.

Bagels and weight loss

While plain bagels are a relatively high-calorie food option, they can still be a part of a healthy diet plan if consumed in moderation. Individuals who are looking to lose weight should keep the calorie content of plain bagels in mind while consuming them. Additionally, individuals who are on a weight loss diet can opt for smaller-sized plain bagels, which are lower in calories than the standard-sized serving, to help them achieve their weight loss goals. It's also recommended to consume plain bagels with protein-rich food sources or fresh fruits to make them a more satiating meal option and prevent overeating.

Bagel alternatives

Individuals who are concerned about their calorie and carbohydrate intake can opt for healthier alternatives to plain bagels. Some healthier alternatives include whole wheat bagels, which are high in fiber and low in calories, or oat bran bagels, which are high in protein and vitamins. Additionally, individuals can consider other healthy food options like whole grain bread, pita bread, or rice cakes, which are lower in calorie and carbohydrates than plain bagels. Considering healthier alternatives can help individuals enjoy a diverse range of foods while still maintaining their health and fitness goals.

Ways to enjoy a plain bagel

Plain bagels can be enjoyed in a variety of ways to make them more interesting and flavorful. Here are some ideas: - Toast a plain bagel and top it with avocado and tomato slices for a delicious and healthy breakfast. - Add low-fat cream cheese and smoked salmon on a bagel for a protein-rich lunch option.

Calories in toppings for a plain bagel

Plain bagels are relatively low in calories, but the toppings added to them can significantly increase their calorie content. Here are some common toppings and their calorie counts: - 1 oz of cream cheese: 100 calories - 1 oz of smoked salmon: 40 calories

Bagel sandwich ideas

Bagels can be a great alternative to bread when making sandwiches. Here are some delicious ideas: - Turkey and avocado: Toast a plain bagel and spread low-fat cream cheese on both halves. Add sliced turkey, avocado, tomato, and lettuce for a protein-rich and healthy lunch option. - Egg sandwich: Scramble an egg in a pan with some onions and bell peppers. Add the egg mixture to a toasted plain bagel and top with some shredded cheese.

Best drinks to pair with a plain bagel

Plain bagels can be enjoyed with a variety of drinks that can enhance their flavor and nutritional value. Here are some ideas: - Coffee: A cup of black coffee can complement a plain bagel's taste perfectly while providing a caffeine boost. - Fresh fruit juice: A glass of fresh fruit juice can provide additional vitamins and minerals while making the meal more refreshing.

How to make a low-calorie bagel spread

Bagel spreads like cream cheese or butter can be high in calories and fat, making them an unhealthy option for individuals trying to lose weight. Here's a low-calorie alternative: - Hummus: Made from chickpeas, hummus is a protein-rich and low-fat alternative to cream cheese. It's also easy to make at home. Simply blend 1 can of chickpeas, 2 garlic cloves, 2 tbsp of olive oil, 1 tbsp of lemon juice, and some salt and pepper to taste. Other low-calorie alternatives to bagel spreads include low-fat cottage cheese, mashed avocado, or a salsa dip.