White Sandwich Bread

Woolworths White Sandwich Bread

  • Whole food
  • Checked
  • Grade C
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The short answer

White Sandwich Bread by Woolworths has 208 kcal, 38 g carbs, 7.5 g protein and 2 g fat per serving (1 slice (30g)).

Calories208kcal
Carbs38g
Protein7.5g
Fat2g
About it

Woolworths White Sandwich Bread is a soft-textured white bread, commonly used for sandwiches and snacks. It offers a moderate carbohydrate source with 14g of carbs per serving (30g), making it a potential option for athletes needing a quick energy source. However, with only 2.4g of protein and 0.6g of fat per serving, it lacks substantial macronutrient diversity. The sodium content is 105mg per serving, which is relatively low compared to the 300-600mg/hr sweat loss typical in endurance activities. This bread is best consumed as a supplemental carb source rather than a primary fuel due to its low carb density of 42g per 100g. Its rapid gastric emptying due to low fiber and fat content allows for quick energy availability, but its low protein content limits its use in recovery. For endurance athletes, it's suitable for carb loading or as a quick snack before or after moderate-intensity sessions.

  • Moderate carb source for quick energy
  • Low fiber for rapid gastric emptying
  • Convenient and versatile snack option

On the label per serving, 1 slice (30g)

Energy870 kJ
Calories208 kcal
Carbs38.0 g
Sugar5.0 g
Fibre3.2 g
Protein7.5 g
Fat2.0 g
Saturated fat0.8 g
Sodium340 mg
Potassium162 mg

The numbers that matter on a training day

Carb density42.2%Carbs as a share of the food's weight: how hard it is on the gut at pace.
Glucose to fructose—Glucose with fructose lifts how much carb the gut can take in an hour.
Sodium per 100 kcal164 mgSalt for the energy it carries; sweat loses 300 to 600 mg an hour.
Energy density9.7 kJ/gEnergy you carry per gram, when grams in the pocket matter.
Servings for 60 g an hour1.6How many an hour for a 60 g carb baseline.
Glycaemic profileThe bread likely has a moderate glycemic index due to its refined flour content, leading to a quick blood sugar spike and energy availability.

How we read foods ›

For endurance who it suits

Endurance verdict

Woolworths White Sandwich Bread can serve as a convenient carb source for endurance athletes needing quick energy. However, its low protein and fat content make it unsuitable as a standalone recovery food. Its low sodium content also limits its use in high-sweat conditions. It's best used as a supplementary snack or for carb loading.

Who it is for

This bread is suitable for endurance athletes seeking a quick carbohydrate boost before or after moderate-intensity training sessions. It's ideal for those who need a low-fiber, easily digestible snack but not for those requiring high protein or fat intake. Athletes with gluten or soy allergies should avoid it.

Best sessions

Ideal for moderate-intensity sessions like tempo runs or short rides where quick carb availability is needed without heavy digestion.

Pros
  • Convenient and widely available
  • Quick energy source due to refined carbs
  • Low fiber aids rapid digestion
  • Versatile for pre- or post-training snacks
Cons
  • Low protein content for recovery
  • Not suitable for gluten-sensitive athletes
  • Minimal sodium for electrolyte replacement
Watch out for
  • Potential for blood sugar spikes
  • Not suitable for gluten or soy allergies

Fuelling science in short

During a session

Not recommended during workouts due to its solid form and low carb density, which may not meet high-intensity energy demands efficiently.

Glycaemic profile

The bread likely has a moderate glycemic index due to its refined flour content, leading to a quick blood sugar spike and energy availability.

Electrolytes

Contains 105mg of sodium per serving, which is below the recommended 300-600mg/hr for sweat losses. Potassium content is minimal.

Carb breakdown
Total carbs
14 g
Hourly capacity
60

Race day before, during and after

Suits it for
  • BeforeCAUTION
  • DuringDO NOT USE
  • AfterDO NOT USE
  • Carb loadUSE
  • Every dayUSE

Pre-race use is limited due to low protein and fat, which are needed for sustained energy. During-race use is impractical because of its solid form and low carb density. For recovery, it lacks the necessary protein content for muscle repair. Suitable for carb loading due to moderate carb content, but not ideal for high-volume needs. Everyday training use is viable for quick snacks.

CAUTION: Suitable 1-2 hours before the race for a quick carb boost, but lacks protein and fat for sustained energy. Consider pairing with protein or fat sources.

Pair it with
  • Pair with peanut butter for added protein
  • Combine with a banana for potassium boost
  • Use with electrolyte drink to balance sodium

For practitioners the evidence

Evidence grade: B — While the bread's nutritional profile is well-documented, its specific application in endurance sports lacks direct clinical trials.

In a carb load

Woolworths White Sandwich Bread has a moderate carb density of 42g per 100g. A single 30g serving provides 14g of carbohydrates, contributing modestly to a carb-loading target of 600-840g/day for a 70kg athlete. Achieving this target would require consuming a large volume of bread, which is impractical due to its low carb density and potential satiety effects. Thus, while it can be part of a carb-loading strategy, it should be complemented with higher density carb sources.

Digestion and absorption

The bread's refined wheat flour base allows for rapid gastric emptying due to its low fiber and fat content. Carbohydrates are primarily absorbed in the small intestine via SGLT1 transporters for glucose. The low fiber content minimizes colonic fermentation and reduces the risk of GI distress. Its quick digestion makes it suitable for pre-exercise consumption but less ideal for sustained energy release.

Recovery

Woolworths White Sandwich Bread provides carbohydrates but lacks sufficient protein (2.4g per serving) to support muscle protein synthesis post-exercise. It does not meet the recommended 1.0-1.2g/kg/h carbohydrate intake for optimal glycogen resynthesis. Its low sodium content also limits its role in effective rehydration. Thus, it should be paired with protein-rich foods and electrolytes for recovery.

Downsides

The bread's refined carbohydrate content may cause rapid blood sugar spikes, leading to potential rebound hypoglycemia if consumed alone pre-exercise. Its low fiber content may not satiate hunger effectively, and the presence of gluten and soy can trigger allergies. The lack of electrolytes makes it unsuitable for high-sweat conditions without supplementation.

Don't use it when
  • Do not use during high-intensity exercise due to low carb density.
  • Do not use for recovery as a standalone due to low protein content.
  • Do not use if gluten or soy allergies are present.
Clinical risks
  • High refined carb content may cause blood glucose volatility.
  • Low fiber content may lead to inadequate satiety.
  • Contains gluten, unsuitable for celiac disease.
  • Low sodium content may not meet electrolyte needs in hot conditions.

Questions about White Sandwich Bread

How many carbs are in White Sandwich Bread by Woolworths?

38 g of carbs per serving (1 slice (30g)), with 208 kcal and 7.5 g protein.

When should I consume this bread?

Consume it as a quick snack before or after moderate-intensity sessions. Not ideal for high-intensity or long-duration events.

Is this bread suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals?

No, it contains gluten and is not suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Can I use this bread for recovery?

No, it lacks sufficient protein and fat content necessary for effective muscle recovery post-exercise.

What are suitable alternatives for mid-race fueling?

Opt for energy gels or drinks that provide quick-digesting carbs and electrolytes suitable for mid-race consumption.

How does this bread behave in hot weather?

It remains stable in hot conditions but lacks the sodium content needed to replace sweat losses effectively.

Is gut training necessary for this bread?

No specific gut training is needed due to its low fiber content, but individual tolerance should always be assessed.

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