Rice Benefits: Health Benefits You Didn’t Know

Rice Benefits: More and more people are growing health-conscious and are becoming sceptical about the use of rice in their daily meals. While some are shunning plain white polished rice for brown rice, others are switching to bread made of wheat. However, the question is whether shunning rice is the right decision. The answer is no. You may take out rice from your diet completely but by doing so you are depriving your body of the essential amino acids that are present in rice.

Furthermore, by switching over to brown rice you will increase the fibre content. Fibre content is considered to be good for the digestive system as it regulates bowel movements. However, excessive dosage of fibre can lead to indigestion.

Health Benefits of different kinds of Rice

Here are the health benefits of different kinds of rice to help you pick the best item for your health.

1. White Rice
2. Brown Rice
3. Basmati Rice

Let’s discuss these in brief.

1. White Rice Benefits

Although polished white rice is believed to be stripped of all essential nutrients and vitamins, it is a rich source of proteins and carbohydrates. About 500 gm of rice contains 5 gm of proteins. White rice is also easily digested and is easy on the digestive system.

It is also believed to be effective in cases of diarrhoea, colitis, dysentery etc. The carbohydrates in white rice are easily broken down and energy is released into the body faster.

2. Brown Rice Benefits

Brown Rice is not as popular as white rice in India due to lesser awareness about its health benefits among the public. Brown rice is rich in fibre, especially soluble fibre, which is effective in reducing bad cholesterol and hence protects the heart from diseases. Furthermore, it is believed that brown rice contains oils that help in reducing cholesterol levels and controlling blood pressure, while also increasing the good HDL cholesterol.

Due to the high fibre content of rice, the breakdown of carbohydrates is slower as compared to that of white rice. This ensures that there is a controlled release of energy into the body. Furthermore, it leaves you feeling more satiated thus helping you maintain your weight control programme. In addition, brown rice is rich in vitamins and other essential nutrients which are required for the healthy functioning of the body.

3. Basmati Rice Benefits

Basmati rice is one of the most popular variants of rice and is popularly used in India to prepare pilafs, biriyanis and sweet dishes. Basmati rice is usually preferred due to its aroma and long grains. Basmati is available in different variants that range in length and aroma. This variety of rice is rich in nutrients, has a high content of fibre and is rich in 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline. Basmati rice offers as many health benefits as white rice.

Unlike popular belief, Rice nourishes the body

Rice, unlike popular belief, is quite essential in your daily diet as it nourishes the body and boosts it by providing it with strength and immunity. However, carefully balancing your diet is important to derive the best possible nutrition from your food. By shunning rice and including only brown rice or wheat products in your diet, you reduce the amount of essential nutrient intake in the body. Hence, balance the diet with the right amount of rice, depending on the variety of your choice, and serve a wholesome meal to your family. Rice is also considered sacred in India and is an essential part of many important ceremonies such as marriages, birth ceremonies etc.

Also Read: Traditional Indian Spices: The Benefits and Their Uses in Cooking