Rice Health Benefits

When we think of rice, we often imagine the common white grainy rice. But did you know that white rice is just but one of the many types of rice that exists? 

Rice has had a very long history, being documented to be cultivated in China about 12,000 years ago, around 2500 B.C. So, it is no surprise that 90 percent of the world’s rice is grown in Asia. Aside from the usual polished white rice, rice is also pigmented where the bran comes in other hues than the pale brown unpolished rice. There is red rice, purple rice, and even black rice.

Same But Not Equal

If you think that doesn’t matter, you’d be wrong. Not all rice is created equal. In fact, white rice may be the least nutritious among its fellow rice members.

The most nutritious and healthy of the rice are black and red rice. Both rice types can be traced back to the Imperial Courts of Ancient China. Research also showed that red rice has significantly higher potential in combating free radicals with its higher concentrations of flavonoid antioxidants compared to brown and white rice.  Red rice is heavily pigmented and rich in anthocyanins. This makes red rice also have high antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic properties, which aids in reducing risk to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Other benefits of red rice are that its unprocessed grain contains high protein and dietary fibre. In fact, this rice contains very high amounts of iron and magnesium which helps with blood and cardiovascular health. 

Did you know that research has showed that red rice is also rich in calcium, and therefore strengthens the bones and prevent osteoporosis. This was discovered through a comparative study between red and white rice. Other key micronutrients include potassium, zinc and niacin.

Want to be Happy? Eat Rice.

Rich in vitamin B6 or pyridoxine, red rice aids proper brain development for kids. On top of that, vitamin B6 keeps you in a good mood, as it regulates the hormone serotonin and even norepinephrine a compound that helps control stress. It even helps you sleep better as vitamin B6 aids the body in making melatonin, a very important component that regulates our bodies internal clock and sleep pattern. It also lowers obesity risk as eating red rice, will keep you feeling full longer with lesser amount and therefore help avoid overeating.Feeling tired in the afternoon? You won’t, after eating red rice, as it will reduce the blood sugar surge after meals thanks to the high fibre content. So, excited to have the benefits of red rice? You can get your own supply locally under the brand name of Primera. Primera contains all the benefits of premium red rice but the best part is, it is produced locally, and follows the strict quality standards of Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-based Industries, Malaysia. Primera is a brand you can trust and come at an affordable price.