WiBo Health
Whole Wheat Bread

Whole Wheat Bread

Volkorenbrood
Grains & starches

Every 100 g of Whole Wheat Bread contains 247 kcal and 34 g of available carbohydrate. Its glycemic index is 54 (Low), the average of 3 studies in the International GI Tables (Atkinson 2021). A typical 50 g portion has a glycemic load of 9.2 (Low).

Medically reviewed by Dr. Wassim Habib · Last reviewed 12 October 2026

Glycemic index

54
Low

Glycemic load

9.2
per 50 g portion

Calories

247
kcal per 100 g

Protein

13
g per 100 g

💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance

Consumption advice

Wholemeal bread provides more fibre than white bread, and loaves with visible grains are digested more slowly than finely milled flour.

Best preparation methods

Read the label: wholemeal flour should be the first ingredient, not white flour with a little added bran.

Important Nutritional Note

For people with diabetes or insulin resistance, it is always recommended to consider the total glycemic load (GL) of the meal rather than relying on the glycemic index alone.

Nutrition facts

NutrientPer 100 gPer typical portion (50 g)
Calories247 kcal123.5 kcal
Protein13 g6.5 g
Carbohydrate41 g20.5 g
Available carbohydrate34 g17 g
Fat3.4 g1.7 g
Dietary fibre7 g3.5 g
Insulin index96 · clinically tested (Holt / Bao)

The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.

Comparison & smarter alternatives

It ranks 4 of 13 measured foods in Grains & starches by glycemic index (lowest first).

Lower-GI alternatives:

Frequently asked questions

Is Whole Wheat Bread good for weight loss?

It can be included in moderation: it contains 7 g of fibre per 100 g, which supports fullness, and a 50 g portion gives 124 kcal.

How does Whole Wheat Bread affect blood sugar?

Its glycemic index is 54 (Low) according to Atkinson 2021. A typical 50 g portion has a glycemic load of 9.2 (Low), so the effect of this portion on blood sugar is limited.

What is the nutritional value of a typical portion of Whole Wheat Bread?

A typical 50 g portion of Whole Wheat Bread provides about 124 kcal, 6.5 g protein, 20.5 g carbohydrate, 1.7 g fat and 3.5 g fibre.

📚 Scientific sources: International Tables of Glycemic Index (Atkinson et al., Am J Clin Nutr 2021) • Harvard Health Publishing.
Approved value: average of 3 studies (range 45–70), confidence grade A. Methodology & details →
📚 Insulin index sources: Holt SH et al., Am J Clin Nutr 1997;66(5):1264–76 • Bao J et al., Am J Clin Nutr 2009;90(4):986–92.

Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.