Why Brown Rice Is Better Than White Rice For Promoting Health.

Rice is a staple in many diets. White rice usually refers to the more common rice. White rice is brown rice that has been milled and polished. The main difference is that during the processing of brown rice, only the hull is removed while the whole kernel and all layers of bran are left intact. For white rice, all layers of bran, and all or part of the aleurone layer are removed. These outermost layers comprising of the bran, germ and aleurone contain the vital micronutrients for health and also fiber.

If you want to enjoy health benefits from rice, opt for brown rice for the following benefits;

1. Glycemic Index. Brown rice has a lower glycemic index than white rice.
2. Fiber content. Brown rice contains natural fiber while the fiber in white rice is removed during processing. Fiber gives a feeling of fullness, helps in weight loss, blood sugar regulation and blood cholesterol levels. Fiber reduces the risk of heart disease by reducing plaque build-up in the arteries.
3. Calories and carbohydrates. Weight for weight, brown rice contains fewer carbohydrates and calories than white rice.
4. Vitamins and minerals. Raw rice has a lot of vitamins and minerals which are mostly found in the bran, germ and aleurone layers. These are the layers that are removed during white rice processing. Brown rice has more nutritional values because of this. Brown rice contains thiamin, niacin, pyridoxine, copper, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, potassium, manganese and selenium.
5. Brown rice contains natural oils which also help to regulate blood cholesterol levels.
6. Brown rice is high in Magnesium which helps to lower blood pressure. Magnesium is also important for healthy bones.

White rice looks more appealing than brown rice because of the colour and also tastes better. The aesthetic appeal is what white rice has over brown rice which is more nutritious and promotes health.

If you are trying to lose weight, dealing with diabetes or some chronic ailments, brown rice should be your rice choice. Most local rice in Nigeria like Ofada rice can be classified as brown rice.

Have you got a recipe for brown rice to share below or by email to yvonnebosede06@gmail.com. Follow on Twitter @heal2bwell.