213. 7 things no one tells you about the ingredients in commerical bread.

213. 7 things no one tells you about the ingredients in commerical bread.

From Simple Doesn't Mean Easy by Michelle Visser

March 9, 2026 · 28 min

About this episode

Michelle Visser discusses the hidden ingredients in commercial bread and their impact on health.

In this episode of Simple Doesn’t Mean Easy, Michelle Visser breaks down a major problem with current dietary guidelines: the confusing advice to eat more “whole grains.” Most shoppers assume that choosing whole wheat bread at the grocery store means they are making a healthier choice. But Michelle explains that many commercial breads labeled “whole wheat” are still made from refined flour and contain a long list of dough conditioners, preservatives, and emulsifiers designed for industrial baking. She explores the hidden ingredients often found in store-bought bread, how they affect gut health, and why modern wheat products can contribute to gluten sensitivities. Michelle also shares why fresh-milled flour and true whole grains provide more nutrients and support a healthier gut microbiome. Most importantly, she encourages listeners to approach real food changes with baby steps, focusing on progress rather than perfection. The current dietary guidelines encourage eating more whole grains, but most people misunderstand what that means. Most “whole wheat” bread in grocery stores is still made with refined flour, with bran added back in. Store-bought bread often contains chemical…

People in this episode

Host: Michelle Visser

Topics covered

  • commercial bread
  • whole grains
  • gut health
  • dietary guidelines
  • refined flour
  • real food

Keywords

  • whole wheat
  • refined flour
  • gut microbiome
  • dough conditioners
  • preservatives
  • gluten sensitivities
  • fresh-milled flour

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