Better gut health: Why sourdough should be your family’s new favourite bread

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread. It’s warm, comforting, and a staple that has held a place at family tables for centuries. But not all bread is created equal, and one age-old recipe is making a powerful comeback for modern-day kitchens: sourdough.

Across the world, foodies and wellness enthusiasts are rediscovering sourdough for its unique tangy flavour and gut-loving goodness. And now, South African families can bring the much-loved sourdough taste to their everyday meals with Sunbake’s new sourdough buns.

The perfect addition to your spring 
Just in time for the warmer days and the season of gatherings, Sunbake’s sourdough buns are now available in stores. Perfect for picnics, brunches, and family meals, they promise to bring wholesome goodness to every table.

A growing legacy of goodness

For years, Sunbake has been committed to nourishing families with breads and baked goods made for every occasion. From everyday loaves fortified with essential vitamin D and calcium, to the much-loved Vita-Life range, designed to keep you fuller for longer to keep you fuller for longer, Sunbake has become a trusted part of South African homes.

Buns and rolls have long been the stars of family gatherings, while the Vita-Life seeded varieties add an extra boost of goodness for those seeking wholesome nutrition. And for moments of sweet indulgence, Sunbake’s treats, like the hot cross buns and cheese rolls, are always there to bring comfort and a little celebration to the table.

But today, they shine a spotlight on something truly special: the craft of sourdough.

The gut-health powerhouse you need

So, what makes sourdough so remarkable, particularly for your gut? It all comes down to its unique fermentation process. Unlike conventional breads, sourdough is made using a ‘starter’, a fermented mixture of flour and water teeming with beneficial bacteria and wild yeasts.

According to Market Research Future, shows that the lactic acid bacteria in sourdough can increase the bioavailability of minerals such as magnesium, zinc, and iron, supporting overall nutrition.

“As highlighted by the National Library of Medicine, the fermentation process in sourdough bread breaks down complex carbohydrates and gluten, making it easier to digest for many people,” explains Mbali Mapholi, private practice and consultant dietitian.  “This pre-digestion can significantly improve nutrient absorption and reduce digestive discomfort, contributing to a healthier gut microbiome.”

A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for digestion and immunity. Sourdough’s natural fermentation also lowers its glycaemic index, causing a slower, more stable rise in blood sugar compared to other breads. This can be particularly beneficial for sustained energy and overall metabolic health. 

Deliciously digestible

“Families today are looking for balance. They want food that tastes amazing, but also supports their health and lifestyle goals,” adds Mapholi. “Sourdough delivers on both, it’s one of those rare foods that feels like a treat but is actually good for you, offering a delicious way to support your digestive system.”

The beauty of sourdough is its versatility. Imagine building a weekend brunch burger with Avo and poached eggs on a warm sourdough bun. Or packing a wholesome school lunch layered with grilled chicken, greens, and a drizzle of homemade dressing. These are the everyday moments where Sunbake sourdough buns become a part of your family, striking a balance between indulgence and nourishment.

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