My Favorite Bread Alternatives

Bread is one of those foods that feels like a hug. Warm, soft, comforting… but for many of us, it can also be a sneaky culprit for bloating, sluggishness, or throwing us off track with our goals.

Luckily, there are some simple, delicious alternatives that not only work for gluten-free or low-carb living but also taste amazing.

Here are my top four favorites:

1. Baked or Air-Fried Sweet Potato

This one is pure comfort food. Slice a sweet potato into thin rounds or lengthwise “planks,” bake or air fry them until the outside is nice and crispy, and use them as the “bread” for your favorite toppings. They’re naturally sweet, loaded with vitamins, and give you that hearty feel without the heaviness of traditional bread. I especially love them for open-faced sandwiches, avocado toast, or with sugar-free jam.

If you’re going for low-carb, this may not be the option you want to go with, as one sweet potato has around 27 grams of carbs (though still less than two slices of white bread).

2. Cottage Cheese Flatbread

This one might blow your mind! You simply blend cottage cheese with eggs, season to taste, and bake it into a flatbread shape. It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and super versatile. You can use it for sandwiches, toast, or even breakfast bakes. It’s a great option when you want something filling but still light.

3. Lettuce Wraps

Lettuce might not sound exciting, but hear me out—if you choose the right type, it makes all the difference. Butter lettuce and romaine are great options because they’re crisp, sturdy, and have just enough “wrap” power to hold fillings without tearing. Try for turkey sandwiches, chicken salad, or even burgers. Lettuce wraps keep things fresh and crunchy while letting the flavors shine.

4. Rice Paper Wraps

This is a total secret weapon for wraps and sandwiches. Rice paper is naturally gluten-free, low in calories, and turns soft and flexible after just a quick dip in warm water. Try stuffing it with grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and a light sauce for a quick lunch. It’s like having a spring roll… but with whatever filling your heart desires.

Final Thoughts

These swaps are great alternatives to real bread to give you the freedom to enjoy your favorite meals without the crash or sluggishness you might feel from regular bread. They’re quick, satisfying, and will keep you feeling light and energized.

If you’ve been thinking about making a change—whether it’s for your health, your energy, or simply to try something new—start with one of these swaps this week. You might be surprised by how much you love it!

And remember, our bodies are temples (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), and what we put in them matters. Choosing foods that fuel you well is a form of honoring the incredible gift God has given you.

“Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body.” —1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NLT)

I hope this has served you well!

Amber Dabney Smith

Your Hope Dealer