Whole grains are an important part of a balanced diet. However, being brown in color does not mean bread is made from whole-wheat flour.

Here are 19 sweet, savory and scrumptious toast recipes that you can enjoy at breakfast, lunch and dinner (or even at snack time) — all for 250 calories or less!

Additives are used in commercial breads for various reasons. Antioxidants prevent spoiling and extend shelf life; dough conditioners achieve a desired texture; sweeteners are used for flavor enhancement and to retain moisture.

A good bread recipe can inspire you to plan an evening of baking that results in the wonderful smell of fresh bread wafting through your home. Many bread recipes call for bread flour, and you might have only all-purpose flour on hand.

While manufacturers commonly bleach and process commercial flour, you can control every step of the milling when you grind your own flour. Home grinding lets you decide on a coarse texture for rustic whole-wheat breads or a finer flour for tender baked goods.

Protein may get a lot of attention as a muscle-building nutrient, but you need carbohydrates for energy to help you meet your lean-body goals. Bread is a good source of carbohydrates, but not all types are equally beneficial.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's minimum daily recommended consumption of grain for adults is 6 to 8 ounces with at least 3 to 4 ounces coming from whole grains. Whole grains provide important nutrients and reduce the risk of many ailments, including heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

Gluten-free flours, such as almond, rice and coconut flours, don't behave the way traditional, wheat-based flours do.

Yeast is a live organism that when combined with water, sugar and flour makes baking magic by creating crusty, airy bread. Unfortunately, yeast remains fresh for about one year before it begins to lose potency. If you've had disappointing results with bread making, try using fresh yeast.

Coating your favorite foods in breading not only adds taste, it also adds calories and fat. Traditionally, breadcrumbs are mixed with eggs to make them stick to chicken, fish or vegetables. However, by mixing olive oil instead of eggs with breadcrumbs you can make breaded dishes that are a little healthier.

Multiple defrosting methods can help you enjoy bread that has been frozen like it's fresh out of the oven.

Buckwheat is finely ground, dark-colored flour. It is commonly used for breads, pancakes and waffles, and as a substitute for individuals allergic to wheat. It contains an extensive amount of proteins, thus an allergic reaction to buckwheat flour is not rare.