Calories in Whole Wheat Bread: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Whole wheat bread is made from flour that uses the entire wheat kernel — including the bran, germ, and endosperm — preserving more fiber, vitamins, and minerals than refined white bread. A standard slice of whole wheat bread provides approximately 81 calories, 14 grams of carbs, and 1.9 grams of fiber. It is also a meaningful source of manganese, selenium, and B vitamins.

Calories by serving size:

Whole wheat bread has a lower glycemic index than white bread due to its intact fiber, which slows digestion and promotes steadier blood sugar levels. Choosing bread labeled "100% whole wheat" ensures you are getting the full nutritional benefit of the whole grain.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does whole wheat bread compare to white bread?

Whole wheat bread contains about three times the fiber of white bread — 1.9 grams versus 0.6 grams per slice — along with more protein, B vitamins, and minerals like magnesium and zinc. The calorie difference is minimal at 81 versus 79 calories per slice. The main nutritional advantage of whole wheat is its higher fiber and micronutrient density from retaining the bran and germ.

How much fiber is in a slice of whole wheat bread?

A standard slice of whole wheat bread contains approximately 1.9 grams of dietary fiber, which is about 7% of the recommended daily intake of 25 to 28 grams. Two slices for a sandwich provide about 3.8 grams of fiber. This fiber supports digestive regularity, helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels, and promotes longer-lasting satiety after meals.

Is whole wheat bread good for weight loss?

Whole wheat bread can support weight loss because its higher fiber content promotes fullness and may help reduce overall calorie intake at subsequent meals. Studies have found that people who eat more whole grains tend to have lower body weight and less abdominal fat. However, portion control still matters — the calorie difference between whole wheat and white bread is small, so the benefit comes primarily from improved satiety.

What is the difference between whole wheat, whole grain, and multigrain bread?

Whole wheat bread is made specifically from whole wheat kernels. Whole grain bread can include any whole grain, such as oats, barley, or rye, in addition to or instead of wheat. Multigrain simply means the bread contains more than one type of grain, but those grains may be refined rather than whole — so multigrain is not automatically healthier unless the label specifies "whole" grains.

How much sugar is in whole wheat bread?

A typical slice of whole wheat bread contains about 1.5 to 3 grams of sugar, depending on the brand. Some of this is naturally occurring from the grain, while some may be added during baking to enhance flavor and browning. Checking the ingredient list for terms like high-fructose corn syrup, honey, or molasses can help you identify added sugars if you want to minimize your intake.