To many all over the world, rice is a staple that satisfactorily fills the belly and provides the needed energy to go about the daily routine. So much so that its (excessive) intake has seen dieticians and health practitioners urging that caution should not be thrown to the wind as we seek to feed ourselves.
Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that not all rice strains are the same, and that rice has got load of benefits to deliver to anyone who eats right. It is in view of this that I have chosen to discuss five incredible benefits that can be derived from eating rice with you in this write-up. It is generally known that rice, being a good source of carbohydrate, provides us with energy at a constant rate.
Besides this however, there are some other healthful advantages that most persons do not seem to have come to terms with and some of these, are thus highlighted below:
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Blood pressure regulation: Indirectly, rice can be very helpful in controlling blood pressure; this is basically down to the fact that it is low in fat and sodium. Sodium has been implicated in a number of cardiovascular dysfunction and high blood pressure cases as it could cause the constriction of the veins and arteries. So, rice – brown rice in particular – should be included in the diet of those susceptible to high blood pressure; it is good for the health of the heart in general.
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Prevention of cancer
Brown rice/local rice varieties like ofada and Abakaliki rice have been found to be very rich in fiber thus offering some protection against cancer. Again, the high antioxidant contents – phenols and flavonoids – of the rice further make it very potent in fighting off the harmful effects of free radicals. -
Boosts the functioning/health of the nervous system
Rice strains such as Basmati and brown rice contain high amount of thiamine (that is, vitamin B1) which is essential in the enzymatic synthesis of neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters help in ensuring that the brain functions properly; improving one’s memory and concentration, and also preventing neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease.
- Improves skin health
Owing to the antioxidant property of certain varieties of rice – though white rice has been virtually bereft of this in the course of processing – the health of the skin can get some nourishment. Consuming a bowl of rice could be what you need to keep premature ageing/wrinkles and acne at bay; red rice and brown rice will serve you well in this regard. More so, the topical application of rice water is recommended for anyone who wishes to keep a healthy skin. - Promotes digestion and metabolism
The high fiber content of rice goes a long way in promoting digestion and warding off constipation as bowel movement is boosted. Furthermore, rice contains vitamins and minerals that are highly effective in sustaining metabolic activities in the human body; with this, the proper functioning of various organs is also enhanced.