Brown rice is often called the lesser evil of all grains. While there are some delicious hybrid varieties, brown rice has its place among all other types. It is often healthier and cheaper than the hybrid varieties. It is also easier to cook and store when compared to the hybrid varieties.
Brown rice is a complete whole grain, meaning that it has the entire inedible part, the grain, as well as the germ. White rice is basically the same grain with the outer hull off, the bran layer, as well as the cereal seed. Red brown rice, gold or black, are all complete grains with slightly different outer layers. These are the source of the varieties that people prefer cooked and for which they prepare foods. The nutrition content varies according to the variation in these outer layers. Health benefits of brown rice are numerous.
Brown rice contains more soluble fiber than does white rice. In addition to having more fiber, it may help reduce cholesterol levels and may help reduce the risk of heart disease. It may also help lower the risk of stroke and certain cancers of the digestive tract.
There are many ways to prepare brown rice. It can be added to soups and stews, as long as it is combined with other vegetables. Cooked brown rice has a rich nutrient-rich content. It is recommended for those who want to lose weight, and has several health benefits. If you choose to eat white rice instead, it will not only taste better but you’ll also get all the nutrients that the healthier variety has.
Brown rice has a high nutritional value. As a side note, you should use brown rice if you don’t know what is in it. For instance, steamed brown rice has more nutrients than un-spoiled white rice. Brown rice is also higher in soluble fiber, magnesium, vitamin E, and beta carotene. Its high nutrient content makes it the ideal choice for enhancing the nutritional value of your food. You can also purchase it fresh or make sure you buy it dry.
Brown rice contains all eight amino acids and boasts high protein, fiber, and starch contents. These qualities make it helpful for a variety of things. Aside from being a healthy grain, it can also replace pasta in many dishes due to its abundance of B vitamins. Brown rice is higher in calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and selenium. With all these nutrients and helpful vitamins, it can easily replace pasta.
Unlike white rice, which is steamed and contains only a small amount of fiber, whole grain brown rice is whole in texture. It has more nutrients and is easily digested by the body. Because it contains more carbohydrates, it may be used for weight loss since the carbohydrates can give the feeling of being full even with small portions. The water in brown rice keeps the starch in the grain from turning into blood sugar which is what causes diabetes.
While we have discussed some of the pros of brown rice and have discussed some of its cons as well, it is important to remember that everyone has their own health situation and eating whatever you like may not always be the best choice. Always talk with your doctor before making any health changes especially if it includes changing your diet. Also, don’t allow yourself to go on a diet for too long as it can be counterproductive. Eat healthy and stay healthy! Stick to brown rice for your breakfast and a snack during the day, and have brown rice ice cream for dessert!
