Healthy Bagels (2024)

FAQs

What are the healthiest bagels? ›

Here are some tips for choosing the healthiest bagel: Ask for whole-wheat or whole-grain. Compared to 2.5 grams of fiber in a plain medium bagel, a whole-wheat bagel has 4.5 grams of fiber. Multigrain is a tricky term that usually just means the food has "multiple types of grains," which are not necessarily whole.

Avocado. Whether you choose to slice or mash, an avocado is a great way to add healthy fats to your bagel. For an extra boost of protein with your avocado, you can add fried, scrambled or sheet pan eggs. This combination is perfect for a nice savory breakfast your whole family will love.

Unfortunately there's no simple answer to this question. In terms of calories, on average one bagel has more calories than one slice of bread. However, if you choose to have a bagel with more fibre, this may help you feel fuller for longer and potentially reduce your snacking throughout the day.

To take advantage of these benefits, look for bagels that are made from whole grains like oats, rye, spelt, or whole wheat — but remember to keep your portion size in check. Bagels made from whole grains may help balance blood sugar, support healthy digestion, and prevent disease.

Why is an egg bagel healthier? Because these bagels contain eggs, they are good sources of protein, iron and vitamins A and B12. Regular bagels have about half the amount of protein and iron as egg bagels and have zero vitamin A or B12. Compare the two and choosing an egg bagel is a no-brainer.

Bagels can be healthy if made with whole grains, contain minimal fat and sugar, and are an appropriate portion size for your health goals. For a healthier choice, look for whole wheat, whole grain, or rye bagels. While bagels with cream cheese are delicious, traditional cream cheese is not necessarily healthy.

"The portion size of most packaged bagels is equal to just over three slices of bread. Enjoying a bagel every morning is fine if you watch your portion size. Consider eating half a bagel one day and the other half the next day," says Laura M. Ali, M.S., RDN, a culinary nutritionist in Pittsburgh.

If you're eating bread or bagels while trying to lose weight, look for those made from grains with a low glycemic index. Bagels and bread aren't among your top choices when trying to lose weight. But if you love bagels or bread, you can certainly continue eating them, even when on a weight loss plan.

What is the best breakfast for weight loss? ›

To lose weight, eat fewer calories than you burn throughout the day. The best things to eat for breakfast include oatmeal, eggs, lean bacon or turkey, whole-grain toast, peanut butter, smoothies, and yogurt with muesli.

"I think Dave's Killer Bread is a good option when purchasing bread," says Modell. "It is high in fiber and protein. Although the sugar content might be higher than some of its health-conscious counterparts, it can add value to your diet." And Martin agrees.

In terms of the healthiest bagels, plain may seem like the obvious choice but Taub-Dix notes that seed-rich sesame and everything bagels contain heart-healthy fat and fiber. Rye, pumpernickel, oat and whole-wheat are also good choices.

The healthiest types of both bread and bagel are ones made with whole grains, as well as options with limited added sweeteners, sugar, or artificial ingredients. For both bread and bagels, whole wheat, rye, and sourdough bread varieties are the healthiest choice compared to regular white flour alternatives.

Choose sandwich breads and bagels with whole grains.

Surprisingly, the Artisan Ciabatta Loaf contains some whole grains, but not as many as the white whole grain bread. The most nutritious bagel option is the Sprouted Grain Bagel Flat.

Bubba's Skinny 100% Whole Wheat Bagels

Each 46-gram serving has just 20 carbs, 1 gram of added sugar, and 250 mg of sodium. The label also shows 5 grams of protein and 5 grams of fat.