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Craving Bread? Try Chapati For Weight Loss Instead!

Nimisha Gupta

Nimisha Gupta
Jul 2023

2 min read
Chapati For Weight Loss

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We Indians have an undeniable love for our very own Chapati. Yes, call it a roti, phulka, or crispy paratha, the ever-versatile Chapati holds a special place in our hearts and Indian cuisine for generations. But what if I tell you that eating Chapati for weight loss can help you shed those extra pounds and transform your body?

Yes, our simple and fluffy Indian Chapati is delicious and packs a nutritional punch that can help you achieve your fitness goals. With its low-calorie count and numerous health benefits, Chapati is the perfect addition to any weight loss diet. In this blog post, we will explore why Chapati is superior to regular bread and how it can help you achieve your desired weight. So get ready to discover the wonders of Chapati for weight loss!

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What Is Chapati?

Chapati, or roti or Indian flatbread, is a staple in many Indian households. Making Chapati is super easy, using whole wheat flour and water, with no added fats or oils. The dough is rolled out into thin circles and then cooked on a hot griddle or tawa until it puffs up slightly.

If we talk about bread v/s roti, what sets Chapati apart from regular bread is its simple and wholesome ingredients. Unlike bread which often contains additives, preservatives, and refined flours, Chapati sticks to the basics – just whole wheat flour and water. But is Chapati good for weight loss? Yes, Chapati makes it a much healthier option for those looking to lose weight.

Chapatis are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. They can be enjoyed plain or paired with various curries, vegetables, or lentil dishes. Whether you prefer them soft and chewy or crispy and flaky, there is a chapati cooking technique that suits your taste buds.

In addition to being low in calories compared to bread made from refined flour like white bread, chapatis are also rich in fiber. It means they keep you feeling full for longer periods without adding excessive calories to your diet.

So next time you’re craving bread but don’t want the guilt of derailing your weight loss efforts, try Chapati! Its simplicity of ingredients combined with its versatility makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to shed pounds while still enjoying delicious meals. 

How Is Chapati Healthier Than Bread?

In a country where diverse culinary traditions coexist, Chapati has remained a constant presence on our plates; our own dal roti, hai na! It’s not just a delicious accompaniment to curries and dals; it’s also a healthy and wholesome alternative to processed bread. But what makes it healthier? Let’s delve into the reasons:

  • Whole wheat Chapati retains all the essential nutrients and fiber of the wheat grain. On the other hand, bread often goes through a refining process that strips away most of its nutritional value.
  • Additionally, Chapati contains no preservatives or additives commonly present in commercially produced bread. These additives can have adverse effects on our health in the long run.
  • Furthermore, chapatis are usually cooked without oil or butter. It reduces unnecessary calories and unhealthy fats compared to some types of bread with high-fat content.
  • Moreover, while consuming white bread can cause a spike in blood sugar levels due to its high glycemic index, chapatis have a lower glycemic index because of their whole wheat composition. It means they release energy slowly and keep you feeling fuller for longer. So try to include chapatis in your low glycemic diet plan.

Hence, opting for Chapati over bread can be an excellent choice if you’re looking for a healthier option. Its nutrient-rich composition and low glycemic index make it beneficial for weight loss and overall well-being. So, if you find yourself yearning for a bread-based delight while watching your waistline, it’s time to consider incorporating Chapati into your weight loss journey.

How Many Calories Are There In A Chapati?

Regarding weight loss, keeping track of your calorie intake is key. So, how many calories are there in a chapati? Let’s find out.

A typical homemade chapati from whole wheat flour contains around 70-80 calories. It makes it a low-calorie option compared to bread, which can be between 70-120 calories per slice, depending on the type.

The calorie content of a chapati may vary slightly based on its size and thickness. Generally, smaller and thinner chapatis will have fewer calories than larger ones. It’s important to note that the overall calorie count will increase if you add ghee or butter while cooking or eat it with high-calorie side dishes like curries or gravies.

However, even with these variations, including one or two chapatis in your meals can help you maintain a balanced caloric intake for weight loss without feeling deprived.

So, if you ask Can I eat Chapati for weight loss? We would say absolutely! Next time you’re craving bread but want to watch your calorie intake, consider swapping it for wholesome and nutritious chapatis instead!

Nutritional Facts Of Chapati For Weight Loss

Chapati provides good carbohydrates and dietary fiber, made from whole wheat flour or other flours such as Bajra (pearl millet) or Jowar (sorghum). One standard-sized Chapati contains approximately 70-80 calories, making it a lower-calorie option than bread. It is also low in fat and cholesterol-free, making it a superb choice for those watching their weight or looking to maintain a healthy heart.

Nutritional FactsWhole Wheat Chapati (1 Medium Sized)
Calories70 – 80
Total Fat1 gm
Cholesterol0 mg
Total Carbohydrate15 gm
Dietary Fibre2 gm
Protein3 gm
Iron1 mg

Chapatis are rich in complex carbohydrates that provide sustainable energy throughout the day. They are also protein-rich and good sources of iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. The dietary fiber content aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation.

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary slightly depending on the specific brand or recipe used to make the whole wheat chapati or bread. It’s always a good idea to check the nutrition label or refer to the product for accurate information.

Benefits Of Chapati For Weight Loss And Overall Health

Is Chapati healthy for our body? Yes, eating Chapati can be a game-changer when it comes to weight loss and improving our health. So, if you find yourself yearning for a bread-based delight while watching your waistline, it’s time to consider incorporating Chapati into your weight loss journey. Why? Let’s check out the reasons:

1. Low In Calorie

One of the main reasons why Chapati aids in weight loss is its low calorie and fat content compared to bread. A typical chapati contains around 70-80 calories, while a slice of bread can have around 100 calories or more. So, you automatically reduce your calorie intake by opting for chapatis instead of bread. Creating a calorie deficit, where you consume fewer calories than you burn, is essential for weight loss.

2. Full Of Essential Nutrients For Weight Loss

Chapati contains essential nutrients such as B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus. When you choose Chapati as part of a well-rounded meal that includes a variety of vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, you provide your body with the necessary nutrients for overall health and well-being. Proper nutrition can support weight loss by ensuring your body functions optimally and reducing the risk of nutrient deficiencies that may lead to dealing with cravings or overeating.

3. Healthy Snack Option

The high-fiber content in chapatis also helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of carbohydrates into the bloodstream. It prevents sudden spikes and crashes in energy levels, reducing cravings for unhealthy snacks. It can help stabilize your appetite, reduce cravings for unhealthy snacks, and promote a more balanced and controlled eating pattern.

4. Low In Fat

Another advantage of including chapatis in your weight loss diet is that they are typically cooked with minimal oil or ghee. It means lower fat intake without compromising on taste and reduces unnecessary calories and unhealthy fats compared to some types of bread that are high in fat content.

5. High In Fiber

Whole wheat Chapati contains more dietary fiber compared to refined flour. High fiber diet adds bulk to your meals, making you feel fuller for longer. It can help prevent overeating and control portion sizes, ultimately reducing calorie consumption. Additionally, high-fiber foods tend to have a lower glycemic index, which means they are digested more slowly, leading to a more gradual rise in blood sugar levels and better appetite control.

6. Versatile And Helps In Portion Control

Chapati can be paired with a range of healthy foods, allowing you to create balanced meals that satisfy your taste buds. By incorporating plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats alongside Chapati, you can ensure a nutritious and filling meal while keeping portion sizes in check. Controlling portion sizes is crucial for weight management, as consuming more significant portions can lead to excess calorie intake.

7. Heart Healthy

Whole wheat chapati is beneficial for heart health. It contains dietary fiber that can help control cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. The nutrients in Chapati, such as magnesium and folate, have also been linked to improved heart health.

8. Maintain Overall Health

Chapati is a source of multiple nutrients, including B vitamins (such as thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and folate), minerals (such as iron, magnesium, and phosphorus), and is also a food rich in antioxidants that are important for maintaining overall health, supporting energy metabolism, promoting brain function, and promote the formation of red blood cells.

Including other healthy ingredients like vegetables into your Chapati fillings can enhance Chapati’s nutritional value and contribute to weight loss efforts. Thus, opting for Chapati over bread can be an excellent choice if you’re looking for a healthier option. So, does Chapati help in weight loss? Yes, its nutrient-rich composition and low glycemic index make it beneficial for weight loss and overall well-being.

Different Types Of Flour To Make Chapati For Weight Loss

To optimize nutritional value while enjoying variety in taste and texture, you can experiment with different flours when making chapatis. You can easily swap 50% of the atta with any other healthy atta for weight loss, like Jowar, Bajra, Ragi, or even Oats! Each type of flour offers unique health benefits and distinct flavors catering to individual preferences. Let’s check out the other flours to make roti:

1. Whole Wheat Flour (Gehun Ka Atta)

Whole wheat flour is India’s most widely used flour for making chapatis. It is made by grinding the whole wheat grain, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. It has a slightly nutty flavor and produces soft and nutritious chapatis. Whole wheat flour is high in fiber and nutrients, making it a popular choice for its health benefits. So, whole wheat chapati helps to keep you full and satisfied for longer periods, reducing the urge to snack on unhealthy foods.

2. Multigrain Flour

Multigrain flour is a combination of different grains and flour. It typically includes a mix of whole wheat, oats, millet, barley, and other grains. Using multigrain flour adds variety to your Chapati and increases its nutritional profile. Combining different grains in a multigrain roti recipe provides a range of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making it a healthier weight-loss option.

3. Besan (Gram Flour)

Besan, known as chickpea flour, is made by grinding dried chickpeas. It is a versatile flour used in various dishes. Besan is gluten-free and high in protein, fiber, and minerals. It is commonly used to make dishes like besan chilla (pancakes), pakoras (fritters), and sev (crunchy snack). Missi roti is a flavorful variation of Chapati made by combining whole wheat flour with gram flour (besan). It often includes various spices such as cumin, coriander, and red chili powder. The dough is rolled into circles and cooked on a grill.

4. Makki Ka Atta (Maize)

Makki ka atta is a flour made from grinding dried corn kernels. It is common in the northern regions of India, especially in Punjab. Makki ki roti is a popular delicacy, often enjoyed with Sarson ka Saag. It is a slightly crumbly texture and a unique sweet corn flavor. Also, it is gluten-free and a good source of fiber, minerals, and antioxidants.

5. Bajra Atta (Pearl Millet Flour)

Bajra atta produces from grinding pearl millet grains. From Rajasthan and Gujarat, Bajra roti, known for its nutty flavor, is a traditional chapati made from Bajra flour. It is gluten-free, and fiber-rich, and provides essential nutrients such as iron, magnesium, and phosphorus. You can also follow this millet diet plan to lose weight.

6. Jowar Atta (Sorghum Flour)

For Jowar Atta, you need to grind sorghum grains, which are gluten-free and rich in fiber, protein, and antioxidants. Jowar roti is a staple in Maharashtra and Karnataka that goes well with traditional curries.

7. Oat Flour

When we grind oats into a fine powder, we get oats atta. It is high in fiber and contains beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that helps reduce cholesterol levels and promote satiety. You can mix Oat flour with whole wheat flour to make Chapati or substitute wheat flour. It adds a slightly nutty flavor and a soft texture to the Chapati.

8. Ragi Atta (Finger Millet Flour)

From grinding finger millet grains, Ragi atta is a highly nutritious, gluten-free source of iron and calcium-rich food. Ragi roti is a popular chapati made from ragi flour, commonly consumed in South India.

9. Buckwheat Flour

Despite its name, Buckwheat flour is gluten-free and not related to wheat. It comes from grinding buckwheat groats. Buckwheat flour is rich in fiber, protein, and essential nutrients like magnesium and antioxidants. It is commonly used in some regions of India to make gluten-free chapatis.

10. Rice Flour

Rice flour is produced from finely ground rice grains, and Akki roti is made from this flour. Also, it is commonly used to prepare various snacks and sweets in India, such as dosa, idli, murukku, and modak. Rice flour roti is gluten-free and can benefit individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. It offers a lighter and crisper texture compared to wheat-based chapatis.

Experimenting with these different flours adds variety to your diet and boosts its nutritional value. So try these options to make your chapatis even healthier while still enjoying their deliciousness!

Tips To Lose Weight With Chapati In Your Diet

While you include chapati made from any flour in your custom diet plan, try to follow these tips below for better and quick results in achieving your fitness goals:

  • Control Portion Sizes: When following a chapati diet for weight loss, controlling your portion sizes is important. Stick to one or two chapatis per meal and avoid going back for seconds.
  • Load Up on Fiber: Chapatis are made from whole wheat flour, which is high in fiber. It can help keep you full and satisfied for longer periods, reducing the chance of overeating.
  • Choose Healthy Fillings: If you add fillings to your chapatis, choose healthier options like grilled vegetables or lean proteins such as chicken or tofu. Avoid high-calorie fillings like cheese or processed meats.
  • Pair with Nutrient-Dense Sides: Instead of serving chapatis with heavy side dishes like rice or fried foods opt for nutrient-dense options such as salads, lentils, or steamed vegetables.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is essential for weight loss success. It helps boost metabolism and aids digestion, keeping hunger pangs at bay.
  • Exercise Regularly: While the chapati diet can aid in weight loss, following a regular exercise routine for weight loss will enhance results even further. Engage in activities you enjoy, such as walking, jogging, cycling, or dancing.

Remember that everyone’s body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another regarding weight loss strategies. Consult a healthcare professional or nutritionist before drastically changing your diet.

Nutritious Chapati Recipes For Quick Weight Loss – Fitelo Special

As we have discussed various flours to make yummy chapatis, we are sharing recipes to make them here. Try making them today!

You can also try making bajre ki roti, missi roti, jau ki roti, wheat bran roti, and many more from Fitelo’s kitchen!

Chapati For Weight Loss: Summing It Up!

Choose Chapati if you’re craving bread but want a healthier weight-loss option. This traditional Indian flatbread is delicious and versatile and offers numerous health benefits.

Chapati is a low-calorie alternative to bread that can help you achieve your fitness goals. Its lower calorie and higher fiber content keep you fuller for longer while providing essential nutrients. Plus, the variety of flours available for making Chapati ensures an option suitable for everyone’s dietary needs.

By incorporating Chapati into your diet, you can enjoy the benefits of improved digestion, better blood sugar control, increased satiety, and boosted metabolism. Its high fiber content aids in regulating cholesterol levels and promotes overall heart health.

Remember that any successful weight loss journey requires consistency, balance, and regular exercise. While Chapati can be a valuable addition to your diet plan, you should combine it with other healthy foods as part of a well-rounded eating regimen. Also, check out these weight loss recipes for dinner and try them with various chapatis!

So why not give Chapati a try? Swap out your regular bread slices for this tasty alternative and watch as those extra pounds gradually melt away. Embrace the flavors of tradition while achieving your fitness goals – all thanks to this simple yet effective swap! Incorporate chapatis into your meals today and experience their incredible benefits firsthand –taste satisfaction and weight management success!

Komaldeep Transformation – Shedding 14 Kg In Just 90 Days With Fitelo

Komaldeep Kaur, a resident of New Zealand, faced health concerns and weight gain with a busy schedule, no time for meal preparation, and a sedentary lifestyle. Fitelo’s dieticians collaborated with Komaldeep and customized her diet plan to accommodate cheat meals and address her time constraints. As a result, Komaldeep achieved an impressive weight loss of 14 kg within 90 days. Read her inspiring success story here:

Fun Fact

Roti Is Healthier Than Bread!

Chapati, made from whole wheat flour, is rich in fiber and essential nutrients. Its low glycemic index and minimal processing make it a nutritious choice for those seeking a healthier alternative to bread. Learn more about the health benefits of roti!

How To Stop Junk Food Craving | Dietitian Mac Singh

Do you also crave Junk food? There are so many articles on the internet that talk about food cravings. But, there are very few that talk about practical steps that you can take to control your cravings for junk food. Dietician Mac Singh explains how to control your cravings for junk food in this video. He has shared the science behind it and practical tips to eliminate it. Watch the complete video here:

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chapati Good For Weight Loss?

Chapati can be a good option for weight loss due to its high fiber content, which helps promote satiety and regulate blood sugar levels.

Is Chapati Lower In Calories Compared To Bread For Weight Loss?

Chapati is generally lower in calories than bread, especially if made from whole wheat flour, making it a favorable choice for weight loss as it can help control calorie intake.

Can I Eat Chapati For Weight Loss?

Yes, you can include Chapati in your weight loss diet as it is a low-calorie, whole-grain food that provides essential nutrients and helps maintain a healthy balance.

Does Chapati Help In Reducing Belly Fat?

While Chapati alone cannot specifically target belly fat, incorporating it into a balanced diet with a calorie deficit and regular physical activity can contribute to overall weight loss, which may help reduce belly fat over time.

What Are The Health Benefits Of Eating Chapati For Weight Loss?

Eating Chapati for weight loss offers benefits such as improved digestion, increased energy levels, reduced risk of chronic diseases, and better weight management due to its high fiber and nutrient content.

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Contact Us Today

Get in touch with our expert team at Fitelo to kick-start your own transformative journey! Let us guide you toward your weight loss goals and help you cultivate sustainable & healthy eating habits. So, contact us today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you with Fitelo!

Disclaimer

This blog post was written to help you make healthy and better food choices. So, be aware and take care. The vital thing to consider is your own health before starting a restrictive diet. Therefore, always seek advice from a doctor/dietitian before starting if you have any concerns.
Eat Healthy, Live Healthy. Enjoy a long, happy life.

No Thoughts on Craving Bread? Try Chapati For Weight Loss Instead!

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