Did you know that 1 pita (57 g) of whole wheat pita bread contains 140 calories? This delicious bread is a popular choice for sandwiches, wraps, and as a side dish. Let's dive deeper into the nutrition facts of this bread.
Whole wheat pita bread is a great source of carbohydrates, protein, fiber, and other essential vitamins and minerals. In addition, it is low in fat and sodium, making it a healthier option compared to regular bread. One serving of whole wheat pita bread (57g) contains 27g of carbohydrates, 6g of protein, 1.5g of fat, and 4g of fiber.
In this article, we'll explore the benefits of whole wheat pita bread, how to use it in your meals, and how to store it to maintain its freshness.
Calories in Whole Wheat Pita Bread
As mentioned earlier, one pita (57g) of whole wheat pita bread contains 140 calories. This makes it a great source of energy for your body. However, it's important to keep in mind your daily caloric intake and balance it with your physical activity levels to maintain a healthy weight. You can use online calorie calculators to determine your daily caloric needs and adjust your meals accordingly.
Carbohydrates in Whole Wheat Pita Bread
Whole wheat pita bread is a rich source of carbohydrates, providing 27g of carbs in one serving (57g). Carbohydrates are essential for providing energy to your body and brain. They also help in regulating blood sugar levels and improving digestion. However, it's important to choose complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables over simple carbohydrates found in processed foods to maintain a healthy diet.
Protein in Whole Wheat Pita Bread
Whole wheat pita bread is a good source of protein, providing 6g of protein in one serving (57g). Proteins play a crucial role in building and repairing muscles, bones, and other tissues. They also help in producing enzymes and hormones that regulate various bodily functions. Including protein-rich foods like chicken, fish, beans, and nuts in your meals along with whole wheat pita bread can help meet your daily protein requirements.
Fat in Whole Wheat Pita Bread
Whole wheat pita bread is low in fat, providing only 1.5g of fat in one serving (57g). However, it's important to choose healthy fats like those found in nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil, and limit saturated and trans fats found in processed and fried foods to maintain a healthy diet. You can also add healthy fats to your meals by filling your whole wheat pita bread with ingredients like hummus, avocado, or salmon, instead of processed meats and cheese.
Fiber in Whole Wheat Pita Bread
Whole wheat pita bread is a great source of fiber, providing 4g of fiber in one serving (57g). Fiber helps in regulating bowel movements, reducing cholesterol levels, and aiding in weight loss by making you feel full for longer periods. You can increase your fiber intake by adding vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes in your meals along with whole wheat pita bread.
Sodium in Whole Wheat Pita Bread
Whole wheat pita bread is low in sodium, providing only 240mg of sodium in one serving (57g). High sodium intake is linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Therefore, it's important to limit your intake of sodium and choose low-sodium options like whole wheat pita bread. You can also reduce your sodium intake by cooking at home using fresh ingredients and avoiding processed and pre-packaged foods.
Vitamins and Minerals in Whole Wheat Pita Bread
Whole wheat pita bread is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and vitamin B6. Iron helps in producing red blood cells and preventing anemia, while magnesium is important for bone health, muscle function, and regulating blood sugar levels. Vitamin B6 helps in producing neurotransmitters and maintaining brain health. Including whole wheat pita bread along with a variety of foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can help provide your body with all the essential nutrients it needs.
Benefits of Whole Wheat Pita Bread
Whole wheat pita bread offers several health benefits due to its high fiber and low-fat content. It can help in reducing the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. It also aids in digestion, weight loss, and maintaining a healthy diet. In addition, it is a versatile option for making healthy sandwiches, wraps, and pizzas that can be customized with various ingredients and flavorings.
How to Use Whole Wheat Pita Bread
Whole wheat pita bread can be used in various ways to make healthy meals and snacks. You can use it as a sandwich or wrap bread and fill it with ingredients like grilled chicken, avocado, lettuce, and cucumber. You can also use it as a pizza crust and add tomato sauce, cheese, and vegetables on top for a healthy pizza. In addition, you can cut it into small pieces and use it as a dipper for hummus, guacamole, or Tzatziki sauce. The possibilities are endless, and you can get creative with your recipes depending on your taste and preferences.
Storage and Shelf Life of Whole Wheat Pita Bread
To maintain the freshness and quality of whole wheat pita bread, it's important to store it properly. You can keep it in an airtight container or a plastic bag and store it in your pantry or cupboard at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature and heat it in the oven or toaster before serving for the best taste and texture.
Whole wheat pita bread offers several health benefits due to its high fiber and low-fat content.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Whole Wheat Pita Bread
1. What is whole wheat pita bread?
Whole wheat pita bread is a type of bread that is made using whole wheat flour. It is similar in texture to regular pita bread, but is more nutritious because it contains the entire wheat grain.
2. How many calories are in a whole wheat pita bread?
A single 57g whole wheat pita bread contains 140 calories.
3. Is whole wheat pita bread healthy?
Yes, whole wheat pita bread is considered to be a healthy option because it is made using whole grains, which contain fiber and other important nutrients. It is also lower in calories than many other types of bread.
4. How can I use whole wheat pita bread in my diet?
Whole wheat pita bread can be used in a variety of ways. It can be stuffed with vegetables, hummus, or lean meats to make a healthy sandwich. It can also be used as a base for pizzas or cut into wedges and used for dipping in sauces or spreads.
5. Where can I find whole wheat pita bread?
Whole wheat pita bread can be found in most grocery stores, usually in the bread aisle. It may also be available at health food stores or in the bakery section of specialty stores.