Health Benefits of Rice

Our Indian meals are carbohydrate dominated and rice is one of the frequently consumed cereals.  But sadly, rice is always surrounded by controversies. Let’s see how this “white magic” can be a boon for all.

Let us explore the benefits of Rice.

1.Packed with Nutrients:

Rice is packed with nutrients like manganese, potassium, calcium, fibre and iron. Along with this, it is a good source of amino acid (methionine), which in combination with lysine (present in dal) helps in muscle strengthening. As per few studies, rice is never eaten alone. It always has a healthy accompaniment like pulse, heap of vegetable or chicken or yoghurt.  All these protein rich food items are enjoyed more with rice than any other foods; hence this combination enhances the nutrition value of the meal.

2.Gluten Free:

Eating portion-controlled quantity of cooked rice, daily, helps to meet the vitamin and energy needs, helps in increasing the metabolism and in turn, aids weight loss. It is a good source of nourishment for people with gluten allergy as well as it helps to lose weight with people having high prolactin levels.

3.Adds variety to the diet and vitality to health:

Rice will always be a part our meals as it is great to taste and available in different varieties (brown, black, white). It can be made into flour, paste and used in various baking recipes. Research suggests that black rice has antioxidant and anti inflammatory properties which may help in preventing Alzheimer’s and diabetes. Brown rice helps in regulating blood sugar and insulin production as it is has low glycemic index and has good fibre content. Insoluble fibre in brown rice helps to fight against intestinal cancer.

4.The added benefit of “Oryzanol”:

Rice Bran contains a phytonutrient called “Oryzanol”. This component has anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, cholesterol lowering, anti cancer and anti-diabetic property. Hence adding rice bran to normal flour can give added advantage. Few studies also stated that the outer hull of the rice also helps in lowering high blood pressure.

5.Easily digested and Reduces acidity

Rice is easily digested by the body and also the nutrients in rice are easily absorbed.  Swallowing 8-10 raw grains of rice empty stomach is considered as a home remedy to reduce acidity.

6.Rice allergy is rare  

Gluten allergy is more heard of than rice allergy. Hence it is safe to consume rice when a person gets detected with any other cereal allergy

So, the next time you stop yourself to eat rice just because of a weight issue- go back, read this and re-think!