Contributed by Healthians Team
Introduction
Your regular diet may include traditional white rice. But what if we told you that you could choose a healthier type of rice? Yes, you heard correctly! Asia has traditionally grown rice, which is cultivated in a variety of colours and one of them is known as black rice. They are nowadays gaining popularity because of their beneficial properties, and nutritional value.
If you’ve ever had black rice, you can appreciate its unique purple-black colour, chewy texture, nuttiness, and slightly sweet flavour. But this special rice is more than just delicious; it’s also remarkably healthful, and it’s been recognized as a rice ‘superfood’ in recent years.
Black rice has a higher concentration of minerals like vitamin E, calcium, and potassium that support healthy bodily functions. Compared to other types of rice, it has higher levels of protein, fibre, and iron as well as high levels of amino acids and antioxidants which are beneficial for overall well-being.
Improves eye health
Black rice contains the antioxidants anthocyanin and vitamin E that promote eye health. Lutein and zeaxanthin, the two most significant carotenoids, are found in black rice that has been said to support and boost eye wellness. A nutritious diet rich in antioxidants and carotenoids also helps protect eye cells from the harmful effects of UV radiation. They are also important in terms of preventing eyesight problems with sight loss due to ageing.
Helps in weight loss
Black rice is a good source of protein and fibre, which can aid in weight loss by decreasing appetite and enhancing the feeling of fullness. According to research, people who consumed a combination of brown and black rice up to three times per day on a calorie-restricted diet were seen to lose significantly more body weight and body fat than those who only consumed white rice.
Helps in controlling diabetes
The presence of phenolic compounds present in black rice helps lower the rate of type 2 diabetes. The phenolic chemicals in black rice may be affected by the pancreatic and intestinal enzymes that break down sugars. This may result in lower blood glucose levels and a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Has anti-cancerous properties
Anthocyanins from black rice help to reduce the number of human breast cancer cells and their growth and ability to spread. According to research a higher intake of anthocyanin-rich foods is connected with a lower risk of colorectal cancer and is also beneficial for overall well-being.
Good for the heart
Your ability to control heart conditions like hypertension and atherosclerosis may be improved by including black rice in your daily diet. Black rice consumption on a regular basis may help you lower cholesterol levels and blood vessel inflammation. Additionally, it also helps to lower blood pressure levels.
Good for hair and skin
The strong antioxidant level of black rice makes it great for your hair. Aside from that, it includes vitamins and minerals that are necessary for promoting hair growth and adding lustre to your hair.
According to experts, the high antioxidant content in black rice protects skin cells against oxidative damage. It helps treat skin conditions like acne, pimples, and other inflammatory skin conditions as well as skin ageing.
Final thoughts
Back rice is most likely the healthiest type of rice in the market. It has enormous nutritional value, which has a variety of positive effects on your health. Almost every organ in your body benefits from regular consumption of black rice. It improves mental skills and is good for the liver, eyes, heart, and respiratory system. It has some anti-ageing properties as well.
Furthermore, it promotes weight loss and helps in managing diabetes effectively. It is simple to add black rice to your everyday diet because of its simple cooking process. It is therefore advisable to include this grain in your diet due to its high nutrient profile, and numerous health advantages.
