How Nutritious Is Black Rice
Oryza sativa or commonly known as rice, has different varieties – most popular ones are white rice, brown rice and red rice. The rare type is the black rice.
Black rice is an ancient grain in Asian countries. It is known as the forbidden rice, because way back in China thousands of years ago, only the emperor or wealthy families could eat black rice.
They forbid it for public consumption for they wanted black rice’s healing properties all for themselves. It could cost your peasant life if you’re caught eating black rice.
But today, many people have discovered the amazing and numerous health benefits of whole grain black rice — reason it is in high demand in many countries like the US, Australia, and most of Europe.
Nutrition Profile Of Black Rice
These closely related varieties of rice differ not only in color but also in nutrition profile. Rice, of any type, is inherently nutritious. But which type has the most impressive in terms of nutritional benefit?
Starting with white rice, the most popular rice variety of all time — once its hull is removed, it has very low nutritional value as far as whole grain is concerned. Note that the hull of any food grain has one of the highest amount of anthocyanin antioxidants.
Brown rice is a better option because it has a higher fiber content while red rice has plus points due to its elevated iron content.
The black rice has all these nutrients in higher amounts – antioxidants, iron, protein and dietary fiber. It is the ultimate rice!
Amazing Health Benefits
High Antioxidants Levels
Black rice has a deep black or purple color. It is an indication of high antioxidant concentrations similar to other deeply colored fruits and vegetables. Its anthocyanins are also off the charts.
They prevent cardiovascular diseases, cancer and other inflammations in the body. Furthermore, these phytochemicals protect the heart by reducing levels of bad cholesterol and triglycerides.
It also detoxifies the body by cleansing the liver and arteries of harmful toxins and plaque. It was also found to improve brain function, and its Vitamin E antioxidant maintains healthy skin and eyes.
Good Source of Fiber
The fiber in black rice helps to prevent constipation, bloating and other digestive disturbances. The main function of fiber is to bind waste and clear the body of toxins, pulling them out and promotes regular bowel movement.
Fiber makes you feel full for a longer period of time which aids in your weight management protecting you against obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and irritable bowel syndrome.
Naturally Gluten-Free
Black rice does not contain the protein gluten which is present in other grains. Some people are sensitive to gluten. Gluten-free is necessary Celiac’s disease sufferers.
Healthy Source of Carbohydrates
Consuming black rice instead of white rice will slow down absorption of sugar in the blood, thus preventing type 2 diabetes. This is mainly because of the fiber present in the hull of the black rice, which slows down glucose absorption.