Complex Carbohydrate — Wheat flour is a good source of complex carbohydrate, the most efficient source of energy available to the human body.
Fiber — Fiber is the undigestible carbohydrate in food, which acts like a broom to sweep our digestive tract. One slice of whole wheat bread contains 1.5 grams of dietary fiber; one slice of white bread contains 0.5 grams.
Wheat foods are moderate sources of incomplete protein. This means that while wheat and other cereal grains may contain all eight of the amino acids necessary for good health, not all eight are found at adequate levels. However, combining wheat or other cereal grains with animal proteins or legumes makes the grain protein complete. Within the cereal group, wheat contains more protein than rice or corn.
Fats account for 2 to 23 percent of wheat foods, although wheat alone contains very little fat. Most often, the fat content in wheat foods results from fat added in production, such as the oil or shortening found in many baked or fried wheat foods. Bread and pasta products are low-fat foods because the by weight, is wheat flour.
Thiamine — One of the essential B-vitamins needed daily for good appetite, digestion, and healthy nerves. Wheat foods are a good source of thiamine.
Niacin — A B-vitamin essential for the efficient use of protein by the body. Wheat foods are a good source of niacin.
Iron — Vital to nutrition. Wheat foods are a reliable source of iron for normal dietary needs.
Zinc – Important for skin healing and growth properties. Wheat foods are a good source of zinc.
Riboflavin — Essential for growth and good vision. Wheat foods are a fair source of riboflavin.
Trace Minerals — Wheat foods are a good source of selenium and magnesium, nutrients essential to good health.