7 benefits of eating red rice, including lowering cholesterol and losing weight

Books by Hussam Al-Shaqwiri

Wednesday, April 12, 2023 12:00 PM

red rice , also known as herbal rice or red ship rice, is a type of rice that has become increasingly popular among health enthusiasts. Red rice gets its name from the reddish-brown color of its outer layer, which is rich in antioxidants and nutrients. Unlike white rice, which is stripped of its outer layer during processing, red rice is left intact, preserving its nutritional content.

Health benefits of eating red rice

1. Rich in antioxidants

Red rice is full of antioxidants, which are compounds that help protect your body from harmful molecules called free radicals. These free radicals can cause cellular damage that can lead to diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, and heart disease. Antioxidants work by neutralizing these free radicals and preventing damage to your cells. Red rice is particularly high in anthocyanins, which are the pigments that give rice its reddish color. These compounds have been shown to have powerful antioxidant properties that can help protect once morest a variety of diseases.

2. It lowers cholesterol

Red rice has been shown to have cholesterol-lowering effects. One study found that people who ate red rice for six months experienced a significant decrease in LDL (bad cholesterol) levels. Red rice contains a compound called monacolin K, which is similar to some cholesterol-lowering medications. This compound works by inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the liver, which helps lower cholesterol levels in the bloodstream.

3. Regulates blood sugar levels

Red rice has a low glycemic index, which means it releases glucose into the bloodstream slowly, preventing spikes in blood sugar levels. This makes it an ideal food for diabetics or those trying to control their blood sugar levels. In addition, red rice contains a high amount of fiber, which also helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream.

4. It helps in losing weight

Red rice is a great food for weight loss because it is low in calories and rich in fiber. Fiber helps fill you up and prevents overeating and snacking between meals. Additionally, red rice is rich in complex carbohydrates, which provide a sustained release of energy, preventing dips in energy that can lead to food cravings and overeating.

5. Strengthens immunity

Red rice is rich in vitamins and minerals that are essential for a healthy immune system. These include iron, zinc, vitamin B6, and vitamin E. Iron is necessary for the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to your cells, while zinc is necessary for the proper functioning of immune cells. Vitamin B6 and Vitamin E are antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage.

6. Promotes heart health

Red rice is a heart-healthy food due to its cholesterol-lowering properties. High levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) are a major risk factor for heart disease, and lowering cholesterol levels can help prevent its development. In addition, red rice is rich in magnesium, which is necessary for the proper functioning of the heart and helps regulate blood pressure.

7. It improves digestion

Red rice is rich in fiber, which helps promote a healthy digestive system. Fiber adds bulk to stool, making it easier to pass, preventing constipation, and reducing the risk of hemorrhoids. Plus, fiber feeds the healthy bacteria in your gut, promotes a healthy microbiome and reduces your risk of digestive disorders.

Red rice is a highly nutritious food that provides a wide range of health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, lowers cholesterol, regulates blood sugar levels, aids weight loss, boosts immunity, promotes heart health, and improves digestion. Thus, adding red rice to your diet is a simple way to improve your overall health.