What is Pumpernickel Good for?

Pumpernickel is a bread traditionally made from a combination of rye flour and rye meal. It is a type of German sourdough bread. Pumpernickel originates in the Westphalia region of Germany.

Low Glycemic Index

The Glycemic Index (GI) rates how carbohydrates effect the blood glucose and insulin levels. Foods with a low GI level are much better for people than foods with a high GI level. The low Glycemic Index includes anything with a GI level less than 55. Pumpernickel has a GI index of 41.

Good Fiber Source

Pumpernickel bread has 1.2 grams of fiber per slice. Eating a diet rich in fiber--that's 25 to 40 grams per day--is reported to reduce the risk for heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and colon cancer.

Digestive Aid

Pumpernickel contains resistant starch, which doesn't digest easily. When resistant starch travels through the stomach, it isn't broken down, but rather is broken down in the colon. This means that people who have insulin problems such as diabetes can eat pumpernickel without a significant rise in blood sugar.

Authentic Pumpernickel

Many pumpernickel breads that are found in the local store do not have the same health benefits as German pumpernickel. Store brands often contain a large amount of wheat flour, and molasses to give the bread its dark brown color. Two companies that sell real pumpernickel bread commercially are Mestemacher, and Rubschlager. These breads may be hard to find, but they are a good choice if available.

Artisan Bread

In order to receive the best benefits from pumpernickel bread, the consumer should purchase the bread at an artisan bakery. Authentic German pumpernickel bread is the only pumpernickel that offers real health benefits. A good way to tell if pumpernickel is authentic, is by how heavy it is when held.