How many calories are in oatmeal bread?

December 28, 2025 •

4 min read

A single slice of generic oatmeal bread contains approximately 73 calories, but this can fluctuate significantly based on brand and preparation method. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of how many calories are in oatmeal bread and explores its full nutritional profile.

Quick Summary

A slice of oatmeal bread generally contains about 73 calories, but the exact amount varies depending on ingredients, brand, and serving size. It is rich in nutrients like fiber and protein, and this article examines its health benefits and how to choose a healthy loaf.

Key Points

Variable Calories: The calorie count in oatmeal bread is not fixed, with a standard slice containing approximately 73 calories, influenced by ingredients, brand, and size.
Rich in Fiber: Whole oat bread is a good source of dietary fiber, including beta-glucan, which supports heart health and digestion.
Nutrient-Dense: Beyond calories, healthy oatmeal bread provides protein, vitamins (like B1 and folate), and minerals (manganese, magnesium).
Label Reading is Key: The term “oatmeal bread” doesn't guarantee a whole grain product; check the ingredient list for 'whole grain' or '100% whole oat flour' listed first.
Avoid Excess Additives: Opt for loaves with minimal added sugars, sodium, and unnecessary additives to maximize health benefits and manage caloric intake.
Comparison with Other Breads: Whole grain oatmeal bread generally offers better nutrition than white bread, containing more fiber and nutrients, but can have a slightly higher glycemic index than whole wheat.
Supports Satiety: The high fiber and protein content of whole oat bread can help you feel fuller for longer, which can aid in weight management.

Understanding the Calories in Oatmeal Bread

When considering a slice of oatmeal bread, the caloric content can vary widely. While a standard generic slice is often around 73 calories, a number of factors can influence this number. A typical 100-gram serving, for instance, may contain around 269 calories. The ultimate calorie count depends heavily on the recipe, including the type of flour used (whole grain vs. refined), the amount of added sugars, and any additional seeds or ingredients mixed in. A dense, homemade whole-grain loaf with minimal sweeteners will be nutritionally different from a mass-produced, softer variety that may use refined flour and added oils.

The Broader Nutritional Profile

Beyond just calories, oatmeal bread offers several notable nutritional benefits, especially when made with a high percentage of whole oats and whole grains. Oats are packed with essential vitamins and minerals and are an excellent source of dietary fiber.

Key Nutrients Found in Oatmeal Bread

Beta-Glucan Fiber: Oats contain a specific type of soluble fiber called beta-glucan, which is well-known for its health benefits. This fiber can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and helps to regulate blood sugar levels.
Protein: Oats are a good source of plant-based protein compared to many other grains, which helps promote a feeling of fullness and supports muscle health.
Vitamins and Minerals: Whole oat grains are a rich source of vital micronutrients including manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and B vitamins like thiamine (B1) and folate.
Antioxidants: Oats contain potent antioxidants, such as avenanthramides, which have been linked to reducing inflammation and blood pressure.

Factors that Influence Oatmeal Bread's Calorie Count

Several elements contribute to the final calorie and nutritional profile of oatmeal bread. Knowing what to look for can help you make a healthier choice.

Ingredients and Processing

Refined vs. Whole Grain Flour: Many commercial oatmeal breads use a mix of refined white flour and a small amount of oats. A bread that lists "whole oat flour" or "100% whole grain" as a primary ingredient will be more nutrient-dense and likely contain more fiber, contributing to greater satiety.
Added Sugars and Fats: Some breads add sweeteners like honey, high-fructose corn syrup, or molasses to improve flavor and texture. Added vegetable oils also increase the calorie count.
Seeds and Nuts: The addition of seeds like flax or sunflower or nuts can increase the healthy fat and fiber content, raising the calorie count but also boosting nutritional value.

Comparison Table: Oatmeal vs. Other Breads

To put oatmeal bread's nutritional value in perspective, here is a comparison with other common bread types, using approximate values per standard slice:


Feature	Oatmeal Bread	Whole Wheat Bread	White Bread
Calories (approx.)	73	81	74
Protein (approx.)	2-3 g	3-4 g	2-3 g
Fiber (approx.)	1-4 g (can vary)	3 g or more	Less than 1 g
Satiety	Good (due to fiber)	Very good (high fiber)	Low (less fiber)
Key Nutrients	Beta-glucan, manganese	Fiber, zinc, selenium	Enriched with some vitamins

Note: Nutritional values depend heavily on specific brands and recipes. Always check the product's nutrition label for the most accurate information.

How to Choose a Healthy Oatmeal Bread

Check the ingredients list: The first ingredient listed should be a whole grain, such as “whole grain oats” or “100% whole wheat flour”. Avoid breads where "enriched wheat flour" is the first item.
Look for high fiber: A truly healthy oatmeal bread will be high in fiber. Aim for at least 3 to 4 grams of fiber per slice to promote satiety and digestive health.
Limit added sugars: Scan the nutrition panel for added sweeteners. A healthy choice should have less than 4 grams of added sugar per slice.
Consider sodium levels: Many commercial breads contain high levels of sodium. Choose a loaf with a lower sodium content, preferably under 170mg per slice.
Evaluate portion sizes: Serving sizes can be misleading. Some thin-sliced breads list two slices as a serving, so compare nutrition labels carefully based on a per-slice basis.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision

In summary, while the average calorie count for a slice of oatmeal bread is around 73, the true nutritional value and health impact depend on the ingredients and processing. Choosing a loaf made with 100% whole oats and minimal added sugars and sodium will provide a greater nutritional return, including significant fiber, protein, and essential micronutrients. By paying close attention to labels and ingredient lists, consumers can ensure that their oatmeal bread is not just a source of calories but a beneficial addition to a balanced, health-conscious diet. Oats, in their wholesome form, are a powerhouse of nutrients and offer proven health benefits for heart and digestive health. For more detailed information on comparing grains, you can review resources like this comparison of oats and wheat by foodstruct.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

A generic commercial oatmeal bread often has a calorie count similar to white bread, around 73 calories per slice. However, a denser, whole grain loaf, with more oats and seeds, might have slightly more calories due to higher fat and fiber content, but offers superior nutritional value.

Yes, it can. The high fiber content, particularly beta-glucan from oats, promotes a feeling of fullness, which can help control appetite and support weight management. However, portion control and overall diet are also crucial for weight loss.

Both can be healthy options depending on the preparation. Oats are typically higher in beta-glucan fiber, protein, and fat, while wheat often contains more overall fiber and certain minerals like zinc and selenium. A 100% whole grain version of either is superior to refined varieties.

Check for '100% whole oat flour' or '100% whole grain' as the first ingredient. Look for at least 3 grams of fiber per slice and a low amount of added sugars, ideally under 4 grams.

Homemade oatmeal bread typically has fewer additives and less sugar than store-bought versions, giving you more control over the nutritional content. Store-bought loaves may contain added oils and sugars that increase the calorie count.

Oats are naturally gluten-free, but oatmeal bread is often made with a mix of wheat flour, which contains gluten. If you have a gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, you must choose a product specifically labeled 'certified gluten-free' to avoid cross-contamination.

Adding seeds (like flax or chia) and nuts increases the fat and fiber content, raising the total calorie count per slice. However, these are typically healthy fats that also enhance the nutritional profile.