7 fantastic reasons why red rice NEEDS to be a part of your staple diet

Red rice is a healthier alternative to the white variety. That’s because it is loaded with essential nutrients. In fact, the benefits of red rice are downright amazing.
pulihora or tamarind rice
Pulihora or tamarind rice is a traditional Ugadi recipe with many health benefits! Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Aayushi Gupta Updated: 30 Oct 2023, 15:24 pm IST
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Rice is associated with weight gain, and that’s exactly why most people avoid consuming it. But are you aware that there are almost 40,000 varieties of rice available on the planet? There are some kinds of rice that do more harm than good, while others like red rice can benefit your health in more ways than one. So, are you ready to know its benefits?

Here are some health benefits of red rice

The major nutrient in red rice is anthocyanin, which is a health-promoting compound. It is what lends this rice a rich red colour, and also has the capacity to lower blood pressure, prevent diabetes, improve vision, and reduce cancer cells. Besides, it also has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Red rice is also loaded with fiber, vitamins B1 and B2, calcium, and iron content. 

These benefits of red rice will convince you to make it a part of your diet:

1. Can lower blood glucose

The uncontrolled blood sugar levels in diabetes can ruin the eyes, kidneys and also cause coronary heart disease. The low glycemic index of red rice helps to keep sugar levels in check, making it a go-to option for diabetics.  

benefits of red rice
When it comes to rice, there are a plethora of options out there in the market. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

2. Help in fighting against asthma

Since red rice is a superb source of magnesium, it can help to improve breathing patterns. What’s more, it can enhance oxygen consumption and circulation in the body, helping you manage asthma better.

3. Good for bone health

Red rice contains calcium and magnesium, which are both essential nutrients for good bone health. This variety can prevent arthritis, osteoporosis, and other bone-related diseases.

4. Aids in digestion

Red rice is a great source of soluble and insoluble fiber, which means it eases bowel movement and boosts digestion. Fibre can be beneficial to tackle both diarrhea and constipation.

5. Promotes weight loss

Red rice will keep you satiated for long, and improve your digestive health over time. No wonder, it is excellent for weight management. The fat content in red rice is zero, which is why it helps to reduce hunger pangs. This makes red rice a better choice if you want to lose weight.

benefits of red rice
Manage your weight with red rice. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

6. Reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases

If someone has heart issues, making a switch from white rice to red rice is going to make a huge difference. The presence of whole grains in red rice can certainly reduce the level of bad cholesterol in the body, which further reduces the risk of heart disease. 

 7. Improves your skin health

The powerful antioxidant properties of anthocyanin can delay signs of premature ageing and UV-induced skin damage. Besides, it is packed with minerals and vitamins like zinc, iron, etc, which help to keep your skin nourished and healthy.

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So ladies, are you impressed by the health benefits of red rice yet? 

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About the Author

Aayushi Gupta is a health writer with a special interest in trends related to diet, fitness, beauty and intimate health. With around 2 years of experience in the wellness industry, she is connected to leading experts and doctors to provide our readers with factually correct information. ...Read More

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