How Much Sugar Is In White Bread?

You probably have a loaf of white bread in your kitchen right now. Used to make a variety of dishes or eaten on its own, bread is a staple in most homes. Unfortunately, many bread products today are filled with artificial ingredients and preservatives to enhance the food's taste, color, and texture. Many brands also add sugar to their bread in order to make it taste better. On average, one slice of white bread contains 1.4 grams of sugar (via Livestrong).

However, it isn't just white bread that contains sugar. According to Insider, some kinds of bread have more sugar in just two slices than candy. Martin's Potato Bread, for example, has 6 grams of sugar in two slices while Dave's Killer Bread in Raisin' the Roof has 6 grams of sugar per slice, which equals 12 grams of sugar in two slices. The American Heart Association recommends that men consume no more than 36 grams of sugar per day while women consume no more than 25 grams. Eating multiple slices of bread made with added sugar a few times each day can burn through your allotted sugar intake quickly.

Fortunately, there are plenty of healthier bread options for you to choose from that contain little to no added sugar. According to Healthline, sprouted grain bread is made from whole grains and is packed with protein and fiber to keep you full. It also typically contains no added sugar. Sourdough bread is another better-for-you option that rarely contains added sugar because it is loved for its tangy taste and doesn't need the extra sweetness.

Whole wheat bread is also a healthier option than white bread. This product contains the bran and germ of the wheat kernel, which is usually stripped away during processing for white bread. However, one slice of whole wheat bread can contain up to 4 grams of sugar (via USDA). While that is potentially more sugar than white bread, whole wheat bread does contain more fiber and nutrients than the former option, so it is still ultimately better for you. If the bread you're eating contains any sugar at all, it's best to limit your intake of it in your diet.