Subway Italian Herb and Cheese Bread: A Detailed Carb Breakdown
Subway's Italian Herb and Cheese bread is a flavorful choice for a sandwich, but for those managing their carbohydrate intake, knowing the exact numbers is essential. The carbohydrate content is determined by the size of the bread, which directly impacts the total amount of carbs consumed. A 6-inch serving has a significantly different nutritional profile than a footlong, so it is important to check the details for the appropriate portion size. This information is based on recent nutrition data released by Subway and other food databases.
Carbohydrate Content by Bread Size
The total carbohydrate count for Subway's Italian Herb and Cheese bread is straightforward, though it's important to remember that these figures do not account for any additional ingredients added to the sandwich, such as toppings, meat, and sauces, which will increase the final carbohydrate total.
For a 6-inch Italian Herb and Cheese bread:
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 41-42 grams.
- Dietary Fiber: Approximately 2 grams.
- Sugars: Approximately 3-5 grams.
- Net Carbs: This is the total carbs minus dietary fiber. For a 6-inch, this is roughly 39-40 grams.
For a footlong Italian Herb and Cheese bread:
- Total Carbohydrates: The total carbs are roughly double the 6-inch size, coming in around 72 grams.
- Dietary Fiber: The fiber content is approximately 4.4 grams.
- Sugars: About 4.3 grams of sugar are in the footlong version.
- Net Carbs: A footlong has approximately 67.6 grams of net carbs.
Is Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Considered High in Carbs?
Compared to other common bread options and typical dietary recommendations, the Italian Herb and Cheese bread is relatively high in carbohydrates. For individuals on a low-carb diet like keto, this bread would not be a suitable choice due to its high carb count. A typical keto diet restricts daily carb intake to around 20-50 grams, a limit that a single 6-inch bread could easily exceed. For those following a moderate-carb diet, however, a 6-inch sub could fit into a meal plan if balanced with low-carb fillings and sauces.
Other Nutritional Considerations
Beyond carbohydrates, it's worth noting other nutritional information for this bread option. The melted cheese and herbs add not only flavor but also calories, fat, and sodium compared to plain Italian or wheat bread.
6-inch Italian Herb and Cheese:
- Calories: ~240-250 kcal
- Total Fat: ~5 grams
- Sodium: ~530-580 mg
These values are higher than simpler bread options, demonstrating the impact of the added cheese and flavorings.
Comparison of Subway Bread Options
To put the Italian Herb and Cheese bread into context, here is a comparison of the total carbohydrate content for a few popular 6-inch Subway bread options based on recent nutritional information:
| Bread Type | Calories (6-inch) | Total Carbs (6-inch) |
|---|---|---|
| Italian | 200 | 38 g |
| 9-Grain Wheat | 210 | 40 g |
| Hearty Italian | 210 | 40 g |
| Flatbread | 220 | 39 g |
| Monterey Cheddar | 240 | 38 g |
| Italian Herb & Cheese | 240-250 | 41-42 g |
As the table shows, Italian Herb and Cheese has one of the highest carbohydrate counts among the standard 6-inch bread options. While the difference may seem minimal, it is a key factor for those meticulously tracking their macronutrients. The total carb count is just one part of the overall nutritional profile, which also includes protein, fat, and sodium.
Tips for Managing Carb Intake at Subway
If you love the Italian Herb and Cheese bread but want to control your carb intake, consider these strategies:
- Opt for the 6-inch size: The footlong, with nearly twice the carbs, is often an unnecessary indulgence if you're watching your intake.
- Load up on veggies: Fill your sandwich with fresh, low-carb vegetables like spinach, lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers to increase volume without adding significant carbs.
- Choose a low-carb filling: Pair the bread with lean protein fillings such as roasted chicken or turkey to create a more balanced macronutrient profile.
- Control your condiments: Many sauces and dressings contain hidden sugars and carbs. Opt for mustard or a small amount of oil and vinegar instead of high-sugar sauces like Sweet Onion Teriyaki.
- Scoop out the bread: While this practice is debated, scooping out some of the interior bread can slightly reduce the carbohydrate content.
The Final Verdict on Carbs
While delicious, the Italian Herb and Cheese bread is a high-carbohydrate option at Subway. It contains 41-42 grams of total carbs in a 6-inch serving and around 72 grams in a footlong. When compared to other options like the standard Italian bread, it consistently ranks among the higher-carb choices due to the added herbs and cheese. For individuals on specific low-carb or weight-management diets, it's crucial to be mindful of this and consider alternatives or modify the sandwich build. For everyone else, it is a flavorful treat to be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion
The carbohydrate count in Subway Italian Herb and Cheese bread is a primary nutritional detail for dieters and health-conscious eaters. A 6-inch size contains approximately 42 grams of carbohydrates, while a footlong contains around 72 grams. While not the lowest-carb option on the menu, understanding these specific numbers empowers consumers to make informed choices about how it fits into their overall eating plan. By pairing this bread with leaner, lower-carb fillings and being mindful of portion size, it can be a satisfying component of a balanced meal.
Check out the official Subway website for the latest nutrition information.
