Brown rice is currently a health fad, but before the processes of polishing started, brown rice or whole rice, is what everyone ate. It is nothing but the unrefined and unpolished whole grain which is obtained by just removing the surrounding hull of the rice kernel. The grain retains its nutrient dense bran and germ layer. Since brown rice does not go through the process of milling and polishing it retains its immense healthful components. Brown rice is a natural wholesome food rich in essential minerals such as manganese, iron, zinc, phosphorous, calcium, selenium, magnesium and potassium.
Here are 8 amazing health benefits of brown rice:
HELPS IN WEIGHT LOSS
The fiber content of brown rice keeps bowel function at its peak since it makes digestion easier. Brown rice also makes you feel full soon which mean smaller meal portions.
STABILIZES BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS
Studies show that those who consume one and a half cup of brown rice daily reduce their risk of developing diabetes by 60%. Brown rice helps in stabilizing blood sugar levels.
PROMOTES BONE HEALTH
Brown rice is a good source of magnesium, a mineral that is essential to bone health. Just one cup of brown rice contains 21% of the recommended value of magnesium. Most of the magnesium in the body is stored in the bones so to keep a high level of magnesium in your bones, eat plenty of brown rice regularly.
PROTECTS THE HEART
Brown rice is rich in selenium which is beneficial for a healthy heart. It helps reduce the blockage of arteries due to plaque build-up. This protective action helps reduce the risk of cardiac disorders such as hypertension and vascular diseases.
LOWERS CHOLESTEROL
Brown rice is a healthy option for maintaining healthy levels of cholesterol as it has naturally occurring oil. It contains beneficial nutrients that help in lipid and glucose metabolism. It has been proven that consumption of brown rice significantly improves the HDL cholesterol concentration (good cholesterol).
PROMOTES RESTFUL SLEEP
Brown rice is a natural source of melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep. It relaxes the nerves and increases the sleep cycle, thus greatly improving the quality of sleep. Brown rice therefore is helpful in the treatment of insomnia.
HAS ANTI-INFLAMMATORY PROPERTIES
Phytonutrients are naturally occurring compounds, that have anti-inflammatory & anti-oxidant properties Brown rice is a great source of these plant compounds especially phenolics. Brown rice contains as much phenolics as fruits and vegetables.
PREVENTS FREE RADICAL DAMAGE
Brown rice is rich in powerful antioxidants which extend their protection against free radical damage. It contains an enzyme called superoxide dismutase which protects the cells from oxidation damage during energy production. Due to these properties, brown rice prevents various oxidation-mediated diseases such as heart diseases.