This vs that: Croissant, bagel and multigrain bread - Healthy Food Guide (2024)

FAQs

Which one is healthier, croissant or bagel? ›

In general, bagels are healthier than croissants. Compared ounce to ounce, butter croissants have less carbohydrates than a plain bagel, but more calories, more fat (much of which is saturated fat), slightly less protein, and similar amounts of fiber.

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To eat more whole grains, choose bagels with the terms whole wheat, whole grain or multigrain in the ingredients list. One medium whole-wheat bagel has 4 grams of fiber, per the USDA. Fiber provides a bevy of benefits, including improved cholesterol and blood pressure.

Bread tends to be a healthier option when compared to croissants, considering the ingredients used in each. The high butter content in croissants means they have a higher fat content when compared to bread. Bread is also generally lower in calories and carbs, per serving.

Multigrain bread is an excellent source of folate as well as providing other vitamins and minerals. Croissants and bagels are nutrient-poor, so keep them as occasional treats.

While croissants do provide some nutritional benefits, they're also high in fats and calories. They're best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, rather than a daily breakfast item. Pairing a croissant with fruits, lean proteins, and other nutrient-dense foods can help balance your meal.

As much as you might love munching on cakes, pastries, cookies, croissants, and other baked goods, learn to eat them less frequently to manage your high cholesterol. These items have high concentrations of shortening and butter, which can exacerbate your cholesterol levels.

Multigrain bread is generally considered healthy, provided its main ingredient is whole grain. Multigrain bread tends to have a lower glycemic index than white bread, depending on the grains it's made of. However, not all multigrain bread is whole grain.

Multigrain bread can be healthy for weight loss. When compared to refined grains, studies have shown that eating whole grains can help to reduce belly fat. Make sure to look for multigrain bread that is 100% whole grain if you want to benefit the most from it while trying to lose weight.

First, bagels can have more calories and carbs than bread because the serving size tends to be higher. However, this does not inherently make bagels less healthy, it just means when you eat a bagel you need to pay attention to how much you're eating and what you're pairing with it.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends several servings of grains daily — 6 ounces for women or 7 ounces for men — as part of a balanced diet. While at least half of your grain servings should come from whole grains, you can also consume some foods made from refined grains, including croissants.

Do croissants spike blood sugar? ›

They often have little or no nutritional value and can cause sharp spikes in blood glucose. Sugar can also contribute to weight gain and the risk of heart disease and stroke. Foods that are often high in sugar include baked goods, such as doughnuts, croissants, cakes, and cookies, as well as pizza dough.

The good news is that the calories from bagels are nutritious and good for you (when you forgo the chocolate chips or sugary toppings), so you can make room for them in your diet. As is often the case, portion size is most important. Opt for smaller bagels and stick to just a half.

If you are handy in the kitchen and want to prepare a healthy croissant, consider baking your own whole wheat croissant. They take a bit of time and the calorie count will be about the same as a regular croissant, but you'll get a little bit of fiber to boost satiety and health.

Multigrain loaves differ from white bread in two significant ways: They are more nutritious and less crumbly. This is why multigrain bread makes for a great sandwich bread. You can also toast multigrain bread and spread a nut butter of your choice over it for a hearty and healthy breakfast.

Croissants can definitely fit into a healthy, well-rounded diet if enjoyed in moderation. In fact, pairing your croissant with ingredients rich in protein and fiber can easily transform this pastry into a balanced and nutritious meal. For the best results, steer clear of croissant sandwiches from fast-food restaurants.

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.

Bagels are frequently made with refined wheat flour and sugar. Plus, portion sizes are often too large. Still, with a few modifications, they can fit into a healthy diet. For optimal health, be mindful of your portion size and choose bagels and toppings made from whole, minimally processed ingredients.

Key Takeaways. Bagels tend to be lower in calories, fat, and sugar compared to donuts, making them a healthier option. Bagels have more carbohydrates and fiber than donuts, providing more sustained energy and promoting a feeling of fullness. Bagels generally contain more protein than donuts.