In early 2024, I began my adventures in sourdough. From starting and nurturing the culture, to continuously feeding my starter like a living pet, it’s been a fascinating ride. I’ve been making fresh sourdough loaves weekly, and there’s nothing like it.
You can expect healthy recipes using sourdough to come. For now, if you’re interested in beginning your own sourdough adventure, check out the book The Perfect Loaf: The Craft and Science of Sourdough Breads, Sweets, and More.* It was a very helpful resource when I began.
Beyond being a delicious option for your breakfast sandwich and grilled cheese, there are actually some great health benefits of sourdough that might surprise you.
Here are some of the key health benefits of sourdough:
- Easier Digestibility: The fermentation process involved in making sourdough breaks down gluten and phytic acid, making it easier to digest.
- Improved Nutrient Absorption: The fermentation of sourdough enhances the availability of nutrients like vitamins and minerals in the bread, making them more easily absorbed by the body.
- Lower Glycemic Index: Sourdough has a lower glycemic index compared to other types of bread. This means it has a milder impact on blood sugar levels, making it a better choice for individuals with diabetes or those seeking to manage their blood sugar.
- Rich in B Vitamins: The fermentation process increases the levels of B vitamins in sourdough, including B1, B2, B6, and B12. These vitamins play a crucial role in energy metabolism and overall well-being.
- Prebiotic Content: Sourdough supports gut health by acting as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial probiotic bacteria in the digestive system. Sourdough starter itself is also full of probiotics, but those probiotics don’t survive the high heat when baked, so the end product does not contain them.
- Reduced Gluten Content: While not gluten-free, the fermentation process reduces the gluten content in sourdough, potentially making it more tolerable for some individuals with gluten sensitivity.
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.