Back May 9, 2025

Is sourdough bread good for diabetes?

If you’re managing diabetes, you might think bread is off the table (or at least off your plate). But fret not, sourdough is here to save your health (and your tastebuds). Could this age-old bread actually be a better choice for blood sugar control? Let’s break it down.

What is sourdough?

Sourdough is a type of bread made through a fermentation process involving wild yeast and lactic acid bacteria. Unlike conventional bread, which relies on commercial yeast for quick rising, sourdough ferments slowly, breaking down gluten and phytic acid while enhancing flavour and texture.

How sourdough affects blood sugar levels

One of the key concerns for people with diabetes is how quickly a food causes blood sugar to rise. This is measured by the glycaemic index (GI). Foods with a lower GI cause slower, more stable increases in blood sugar levels.

Several studies suggest that sourdough has a lower glycaemic index compared to many other types of bread (¹,²,³). The fermentation process changes the structure of the carbohydrates, slowing down digestion and reducing post-meal blood sugar spikes.

Benefits of sourdough for diabetics

Here’s why sourdough may be a beneficial choice:

What makes sourdough a better choice for diabetics?

Not all bread affects blood sugar in the same way. Here’s how sourdough compares to other bread types:

Tips for enjoying sourdough with diabetes

If you have diabetes and want to include sourdough in your diet, consider these tips:

Our top breads for diabetes

Under our large sourdoughs the most diabetic friendly options are:

  1. Our wholewheat sourdough
  2.  Our wheat and rye sourdough
  3.  Our seeded sourdough

Under our tin loaves the most diabetic friendly options are:

  1. Our nordic rye
  2. Our multigrain

All our breads are made with stoneground flour, which also has a lower GI than regular roller-milled flour so will also help with diabetes. 

Are there any drawbacks of sourdough for diabetics?

While sourdough has benefits, it’s not a magic solution. Some points to keep in mind:

How to make healthier sourdough at home

For those looking to maximise the benefits of sourdough, making your own at home can be a great option. Using wholegrain flour, fermenting for longer, and avoiding artificial additives can make your loaf even healthier.

Check out our baking videos to support your journey — including a free ‘Feeding Your Starter‘ course to help you get started!

So, should you eat sourdough if you have diabetes?

Sourdough bread offers several advantages for people with diabetes, thanks to its lower glycaemic index, better digestibility, and improved nutrient absorption. While it’s not a free pass to eat unlimited bread, it can be a better choice than conventional options. If you’re managing diabetes, opting for wholewheat sourdough and pairing it with protein and healthy fats can help maintain balanced blood sugar levels.

For more information about sourdough’s glycaemic index, read ‘sourdough’s secret: a Lower glycaemic index for better health’. Plus, discover simple hacks to reduce the glycaemic index of your sourdough even further, like freezing ‘freezing bread can also lower its GI‘ for more tips.

**FAQs **

1. Can diabetics eat sourdough bread?

Yes, sourdough has a lower glycaemic index than many other types of bread, making it a better option for managing blood sugar levels.

2. Does sourdough bread spike blood sugar?

Compared to white bread, sourdough causes a slower, more gradual rise in blood sugar due to its fermentation process.

3. Is wholemeal sourdough better for diabetes?

Yes, wholemeal or wholegrain sourdough contains more fibre, which can help regulate blood sugar levels more effectively.

4. How often should diabetics eat sourdough?

Moderation is key. While sourdough is a healthier option, it’s still important to balance carbohydrate intake with overall dietary needs.