Red rice comes from China. The skin is not removed from this cereal, therefore, it preserves its properties intact. Its quality is, without a doubt, superior to that of white rice. The pigmentation of the shell is what gives the grain its peculiar color. It is an integral product since it is not subjected to the refining process.
In general, rice is a cereal that provides energy and reduces blood sugar levels. Thanks to the fact that it is a source of carbohydrates that works as the fuel that we need on a daily basis.
Despite the fact that it contains starch, it has a low amount of carbohydrates if we compare it with other products. It also has nutritional value because it contains minerals and very low saturated fats that maintain heart health.
In traditional Chinese medicine, they have used it to solve digestive and circulatory problems. Therefore, if you have constipation problems or if what you want is to detoxify your body, it is time to include some red rice in your diet.
The health benefits of red rice have been widely studied in recent years. Although more research is still required to support its effects, the evidence indicates that it is a food capable of promoting well-being.
Why should it be added to the diet? What specifically are their contributions to health? In the following space, we review it in detail.
1. Lowers cholesterol
Red rice naturally produces lovastatin and monacolin. These substances are responsible for lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) levels due to the HMG-CoA enzyme that is responsible for synthesizing cholesterol and maintaining good conditions in the cardiovascular system.
It also lowers triglyceride levels and increases good cholesterol (HDL). Which prevents heart disease.
2. Control the sugar level
It has a low glycemic index. This means that it is a food with regular sugar proportions. So they do not increase blood glucose. On the contrary, consuming it has a regulating effect on the production of insulin.
3. Satiating effect
Its high fiber content has a good satiating effect. Keeping the shell has more dietary effects than white rice.
Red rice is a fat-free product, a carbohydrate that sends the signal to your body that it is already full without the need to eat high calories. Therefore, the risk of obesity is lower. In addition to containing iron and magnesium, two elements that keep the body energized.
4. Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is responsible for producing antibodies. This means that it helps neurological function to be balanced and, above all, that hemoglobin transports oxygen to the tissues.
So eating red rice keeps red cells in good condition and controls serotonin, fighting states of depression, stress, or irritability.
5. Antioxidant
In addition to containing zinc, which is a mineral that helps strengthen the immune system and healthy skin, hair, and nails, it also contains selenium. This works as an antioxidant and protects the body against free radicals and infections.
6. Protects the bones
Red rice contains magnesium, a mineral that promotes the absorption of calcium in the bones. Therefore, it helps fight diseases such as osteoporosis and low bone density that occur in adulthood. Red rice helps build healthy bones and prevents joint pain
7. Improves digestion
The fiber that red rice contains not only fights overweight because it helps fats to be absorbed slowly. It also contributes to the functioning of the intestines, avoiding abdominal distension and constipation. It is considered a cleansing food.
8. Fight Asthma
Manganese helps balance blood flow and blood pressure. Some people need more magnesium, such as those with asthma, since it protects the airways.
Recommendations
- Use olive oil instead of corn to cook it.
- If it is not organic rice, consume only two servings per week.
- Combine rice with fruits, vegetables, and protein when cooking.
- Drink at least 2 liters of water a day to promote digestion.
- Make sure that both the consumption of pasta and rice is balanced.
