There is some evidence to suggest that freezing bread can lower its glycemic index. The glycemic index (GI) is a measure of how quickly a food raises blood sugar levels. Foods with a high GI are digested and absorbed quickly, causing a rapid rise in blood sugar levels. Foods with a low GI are digested and absorbed more slowly, causing a gradual rise in blood sugar levels.
Freezing white bread reduces its glycemic index by about 30% when consumed after thawing. A study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that freezing and then toasting white bread reduced its GI by 39%. The study’s authors believe that this is because freezing and toasting changes the structure of the starches in the bread, making them more resistant to digestion.
Another study, published in the journal Appetite, found that freezing and then defrosting whole-wheat bread also lowered its GI. The study’s authors believe that this is because freezing and defrosting breaks down some of the resistant starches in the bread, making them more available for digestion.
More research is needed to confirm these findings, but they suggest that freezing bread may be a way to lower its GI and make it a healthier option for people with diabetes or other blood sugar problems.
Here are some tips for freezing bread to lower its glycemic index:
- Freeze bread as soon as possible after it is baked. This will help to preserve the starches in the bread.
- Slice the bread before freezing it. This will make it easier to thaw and use.
- Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help to prevent freezer burn.
- Thaw the bread overnight in the refrigerator. This will help to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
- Toast the bread before eating it. This will further break down the starches in the bread, making them more resistant to digestion.
By following these tips, you can freeze bread and lower its glycemic index, making it a healthier option for people with diabetes, or other blood sugar problems.