Calories in White Bread: Full Nutrition Breakdown

White bread is a widely consumed refined grain product made from wheat flour that has had its bran and germ removed. A standard slice of white bread provides approximately 79 calories, 15 grams of carbs, and about 2.7 grams of protein. Enriched white bread also supplies iron, thiamin, niacin, and folic acid.

Calories by serving size:

White bread is often enriched with B vitamins and iron to compensate for nutrients lost during the refining process. While it is lower in fiber and certain micronutrients compared to whole wheat bread, it remains one of the most affordable and accessible sources of quick carbohydrate energy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many calories are in a slice of white bread?

A standard slice of white bread weighing about 30 grams contains approximately 79 calories. Thicker slices, such as Texas toast or bakery-style bread, can contain 110 to 130 calories per slice due to the larger portion size. Always check the label since calorie counts can vary by brand and slice thickness.

How does white bread compare to whole wheat bread?

White bread and whole wheat bread are similar in calories — about 79 versus 81 per slice — but differ significantly in fiber and nutrient content. Whole wheat bread contains about 1.9 grams of fiber per slice compared to 0.6 grams in white bread. Whole wheat also retains more B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc because the bran and germ are left intact.

Is white bread unhealthy?

White bread is not inherently unhealthy, but it is a refined grain with less fiber and fewer micronutrients than whole grain alternatives. Because it is digested quickly, it can cause faster blood sugar spikes than whole wheat bread. Enjoying white bread in moderation as part of a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains is a reasonable approach.

How much sodium is in white bread?

A single slice of white bread contains approximately 147 milligrams of sodium, and two slices for a sandwich would total about 294 milligrams. This represents roughly 13% of the American Heart Association's ideal daily sodium limit of 1,500 milligrams. Sodium content varies by brand, so checking nutrition labels is worthwhile if you are monitoring your salt intake.

Does toasting bread change its calorie content?

Toasting bread does not meaningfully change its calorie content. The process removes a small amount of moisture through evaporation, which can make the slice slightly lighter, but the difference in calories is negligible — typically fewer than 1 to 2 calories. The macronutrient profile of carbs, protein, and fat remains essentially the same whether the bread is toasted or not.