5 Health Benefits Of Brown Rice

Rice is a staple food in many countries. It goes well with cuisines from different parts of the world. However, most prefer to have white rice, which is not considered healthy. The milling process strips away most of the nutritional value of white rice, but this does not mean you have to give up rice. Simply switch to brown rice for a healthier option.

Brown rice is an unrefined, unpolished whole grain. It is produced by merely removing the hulls surrounding the rice kernels, thus it is full of nutrients.

* Improves Cardiovascular Health

Brown rice is highly beneficial for a healthy heart. Its fiber content helps reduce blockage in the arteries due to plaque buildup.

* Lowers Bad Cholesterol

Brown rice is an excellent source of soluble fiber, which helps lower the level of ‘bad’ low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the blood.

* Reduces Diabetes Risk

Brown rice has a lower glycemic index and is digested more slowly, causing a lower change in blood sugar. This helps avoid spikes in blood sugar levels.

* Protects Against Cancer

A diet that contains brown rice instead of regular white rice is helpful in preventing various cancers, such as colon cancer, breast cancer and leukemia. This beneficial effect is due to the high antioxidant and high fiber content in brown rice.

* Promotes Weight Loss

Switching to brown rice from white rice can even help you maintain a healthy body weight. The fiber content of brown rice keeps you feeling full, which means less snacking on unhealthy foods. As brown rice keeps things moving in the digestive tract, it further promotes weight loss and metabolic function.