Rice is one of the most important sources of carbohydrates for the world population. It literally feeds billions of people around the world and consumed on the daily basis. Rice is the source of instant and quick energy. Because rice is rich in dietary fiber, it should maintain smooth bowel movement. Rice is also known for high level of vitamin B. Compared to sugar and refined white flour used in baked products, rice don’t cause abrupt spikes in blood sugar level. Because rice can bulldoze your gastrointestinal system of cholesterol, it is also good for your cardiovascular health. A plate of rice can give you enough satisfaction and you won’t feel hungry quickly, compared to eating half loaf of bread.
Due to its affordability, rice has become a real staple in many countries, especially in Asia. Rice can be cooked easily. You only need a pot and water, without requiring any fancy cookware. With little experiment, you can make perfect rice every time. Through centuries of domestication, there are tens of thousands of rice varieties around the world. Rice is very versatile. Other than boiling it, you can also microwave, steam and bake rice. With an electric rice cooker, you can quickly make your rice without much effort. Rice can also become the main ingredient of many dishes, like Risotto in Italy. You can make many mouth watering recipes with rice. It could also be used to make various snacks and desserts.
Due to processing technique, white rice is already stripped of various natural properties, like potassium, magnesium, calcium, thiamine, proteins and fiber. If you want to use white rice, make sure that the packaging says that it’s enriched. It means that the rice has been fortified with various minerals and vitamins that has been removed by the processing methods. White rice is so deficient in essential nutrients, that you could become malnourished if you eat only white rice. For this reason, you should choose brown rice instead, which is healthier than regular white rice. Although brown rice may taste a bit grittier, it is rich in various trace minerals, such as selenium. This mineral should be helpful in preventing cancer, heart diseases and various inflammatory conditions.
Brown rice provides more than 80 percent of the daily requirements of manganese. This mineral is essential for the formation of HDL or good cholesterol. By having enough manganese, you can ensure healthier condition for our cardiovascular system. Manganese is also important for our reproductive and nervous system. Brown rice also contains healthy oil that can reduce the level of LDL. By having about six servings of brown rice every week, you may substantially reduce the risk of having plaque accumulation within the artery. Also, brown rice is often associated with the reduced risk of colon cancer. Toxins and bad cholesterol are easily attached to dietary fiber, which will be brought outside your body.
