As the low-carb diet trend continues to gain popularity, one brand has become synonymous with low-carb baking: Barely Bread. The company’s products, which range from bread to bagels to granola, have become staples in many a low-carb dieter’s pantry. But the question remains: is Barely Bread really as low in carbs as it claims to be?
The Rise of Low-Carb Diets
In recent years, low-carb diets have become increasingly popular as a means of losing weight and improving overall health. The basic principle behind these diets is simple: by reducing the intake of carbohydrates, the body is forced to burn stored fat for energy, resulting in weight loss and improved blood sugar control.
But what exactly constitutes a low-carb diet? The answer varies depending on the specific diet plan and individual goals. Generally speaking, a low-carb diet restricts the daily intake of carbohydrates to between 50-150 grams per day. For comparison, the average American consumes around 300-400 grams of carbs per day.
Enter Barely Bread
Founded in 2014, Barely Bread has become a household name among low-carb dieters. The company’s products are designed to mimic the taste and texture of traditional baked goods, but with a fraction of the carbs. According to the company’s website, their bread products contain just 5-7 grams of net carbs per slice – a fraction of the 30-40 grams found in traditional bread.
But how do they do it? Barely Bread’s secret lies in their unique blend of almond flour, coconut flour, and egg whites. These ingredients provide structure and protein to the bread, while keeping carb counts low. The company also uses a special type of fiber called “resistant starch” which is not digestible by the body and does not raise blood sugar levels.
A Closer Look at the Nutrition Label
So, just how low in carbs is Barely Bread? Let’s take a closer look at the nutrition label.
| Nutrition Information | Per Slice |
| — | — |
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Net Carbs | 3g |
At first glance, the nutrition label appears to support Barely Bread’s low-carb claims. However, there are a few key points to consider.
The Importance of Net Carbs
When calculating the carb count of a food, it’s essential to consider the concept of “net carbs.” Net carbs refer to the total number of carbohydrates in a food minus the fiber content. This is because fiber is not digestible by the body and does not raise blood sugar levels.
In the case of Barely Bread, the net carb count is 3 grams per slice. This is significantly lower than traditional bread, which can contain upwards of 30-40 grams of net carbs per slice.
The Role of Resistant Starch
As mentioned earlier, Barely Bread’s products contain a type of fiber called resistant starch. This type of fiber is not digestible by the body and does not raise blood sugar levels. However, some critics argue that resistant starch may not be as exogenous (i.e., coming from outside the body) as the company claims.
One study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that resistant starch can actually be broken down by the body’s gut microbiome, potentially leading to an increase in blood sugar levels. While this study’s findings are not conclusive, they do raise important questions about the role of resistant starch in low-carb baking.
Real-World Implications
So, what does it all mean? Is Barely Bread really as low in carbs as it claims to be? The answer is a resounding “maybe.”
While the nutrition label appears to support the company’s low-carb claims, there are some important factors to consider. The use of resistant starch, for example, may not be as effective at reducing carb counts as the company claims.
Individual Variations
One of the most significant factors to consider is individual variation. Everyone’s body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Some people may find that Barely Bread has a negligible impact on their blood sugar levels, while others may experience a significant spike.
Hidden Carbs
Another important consideration is the concept of “hidden carbs.” These are carbs that are not immediately apparent from the nutrition label, but can still impact blood sugar levels. Common hidden carbs include sugar alcohols, dairy products, and even certain types of fiber.
In the case of Barely Bread, the use of almond flour and coconut flour may introduce hidden carbs into the diet. While these ingredients are generally considered low in carbs, they can still impact blood sugar levels in certain individuals.
The Verdict
So, is Barely Bread really low in carbs? The answer is a resounding “it depends.”
While the company’s products do appear to be lower in carbs than traditional baked goods, there are important factors to consider. The use of resistant starch, individual variations, and hidden carbs all play a role in determining the true carb count of Barely Bread.
Ultimately, the decision to include Barely Bread in a low-carb diet should be made on an individual basis. If you’re considering trying Barely Bread, be sure to monitor your blood sugar levels and adjust your diet accordingly. And as with any new food, be sure to read the nutrition label carefully and consider all the factors at play.
In conclusion, while Barely Bread may not be the low-carb panacea it claims to be, it can still be a valuable addition to a low-carb diet – as long as you’re aware of the potential pitfalls and take steps to monitor your individual response.
Is Barely Bread really as low in carbs as it claims?
Barely Bread’s nutrition label does suggest that it is low in carbs, with only 12-14 grams of net carbs per slice. However, upon closer inspection, some of the ingredients and nutrition facts may raise some red flags.
For instance, one slice of Barely Bread contains 6-7 grams of fiber, which is subtracted from the total carb count to arrive at the net carb amount. While fiber is indeed a carb, it does not raise blood sugar levels or contribute to the same negative health effects as other types of carbs. Still, it’s essential to consider the total carb count, including fiber, when calculating your daily intake.
What are the hidden carbs in Barely Bread?
Some of the hidden carbs in Barely Bread come from ingredients like almond flour, coconut flour, and flaxseed meal. While these ingredients are often associated with low-carb diets, they do contain some carbs. Additionally, Barely Bread contains a small amount of honey, which is a natural sweetener but still a source of carbs.
It’s also worth noting that Barely Bread contains some higher-carb ingredients like apple cider vinegar and tomato paste. While these ingredients are used in small amounts, they do contribute to the overall carb count. Furthermore, the serving size for Barely Bread is one slice, which may not be realistic for many people. If you’re consuming multiple slices, your carb intake will add up quickly.
How does Barely Bread compare to regular bread in terms of carbs?
Compared to regular bread, Barely Bread is significantly lower in carbs. A single slice of traditional bread can contain anywhere from 30-40 grams of carbs, depending on the brand and type. In contrast, Barely Bread has around 12-14 grams of net carbs per slice.
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that even with its lower carb count, Barely Bread is still a treat and should be consumed in moderation. If you’re following a very low-carb diet, you may want to consider alternative options like lettuce wraps or portobello mushroom “buns” for your burgers.
Can I eat Barely Bread on a ketogenic diet?
While Barely Bread is lower in carbs than traditional bread, it may still be too high in carbs for some ketogenic dieters. The general rule of thumb for a ketogenic diet is to consume fewer than 20-25 grams of net carbs per day. With 12-14 grams of net carbs per slice, Barely Bread could easily take up half of your daily carb allowance.
If you’re determined to include Barely Bread in your ketogenic diet, consider pairing it with other low-carb foods and tracking your carb intake carefully. You may also want to explore alternative low-carb bread options that are specifically designed for ketogenic dieters.
Is Barely Bread a healthy choice for people with diabetes?
For people with diabetes, Barely Bread may be a slightly better choice than traditional bread due to its lower carb count. However, it’s still important to consume it in moderation and consider it a treat rather than a staple.
It’s also important to note that Barely Bread contains some ingredients that may affect blood sugar levels, such as the honey and apple cider vinegar mentioned earlier. If you have diabetes, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to determine whether Barely Bread fits within your individualized meal plan.
Can I make my own low-carb bread at home?
Yes, you can make your own low-carb bread at home using a variety of ingredients like almond flour, coconut flour, and flaxseed meal. There are many recipes available online that cater to different dietary needs and preferences.
Making your own low-carb bread at home can be a cost-effective and healthy alternative to store-bought options like Barely Bread. You can also customize your recipe to suit your individual taste preferences and dietary needs. Just be sure to track your carb intake and ingredient ratios carefully to ensure your homemade bread fits within your daily carb limits.
Is Barely Bread worth the cost?
Barely Bread can be a relatively expensive option, especially when compared to traditional bread. Whether or not it’s worth the cost depends on your individual priorities and dietary needs.
If you’re following a low-carb diet and struggling to find suitable bread options, Barely Bread may be worth the investment. However, if you’re on a tight budget or have other low-carb alternatives that meet your needs, you may want to explore more affordable options. Ultimately, the decision to purchase Barely Bread boils down to your individual priorities and willingness to invest in a low-carb lifestyle.