Rice is the staple food for more than 3.5 billion people around the world. With over half the world’s population consuming this humble grain, it is highly likely you also have a packet lying somewhere in your pantry.
Rice is one of the most versatile foods available. With a wide variety of grains and sizes ranging from Basmati, Bamboo to Brown rice, this staple can be served on its own or as a delicious and healthy medium to transport and amplify the flavors of other foods. Whether it’s the heat and spices of biryani or the subtle and refreshing flavors of sushi, rice is an indispensable food source that both complements and enhances a dish. Visit minuterice.com for some rice recipe inspiration.
This article will explore some of the wonderful benefits that rice provides, for both your health and your beauty regimen.
Health Benefits of Rice
Rice is a cereal grain and the seed of the grass species Oryza Sativa. It is one of the most commonly consumed carbohydrates in the world. Some of the innumerable health benefits of adding rice to your diet include:
Gluten-Free
With gluten sensitivity and intolerance becoming more prevalent, this grain is an invaluable option for many people, especially those who suffer from celiac disease. Gluten may induce inflammation of the gut which can trigger an immune response from the body. Brown rice is particularly beneficial for celiac disease as it is a natural anti-inflammatory food that is high in fiber. Not only will this lower the risk of inflammation, but it will also support the rest of your digestive system.
Resistant starch found in white rice feeds good bacteria in the colon, increasing their presence in the gut. A by-product of this process is butyric acid which can decrease inflammation in the gut. For those who enjoy baking, rice can also be ground into an entirely safe gluten-free flour.
Stabilizes Blood Sugar Levels
Thanks to its low glycemic index, brown rice can help to lower blood sugar levels and can also reduce the risk of getting diabetes if eaten as part of a healthy diet.
The fiber in the husk of brown rice works to absorb and reduce blood glucose levels and insulin surges in the body. This helps to stabilize blood sugar as well as energy levels, minimizing cravings and sugar crashes. It can also assist with managing weight.
Easy to Digest
White rice can be a healthy option for people with digestive issues such as heartburn, indigestion or nausea as it is easily digested by the body. Unlike brown rice, white rice does not contain a substance called phytic acid, which can impair the absorption of essential nutrients and inhibit digestive enzymes which can contribute to digestive problems.
Brown rice has a high fiber content and can be beneficial in absorbing stomach acids and reducing symptoms such as acid reflux and may also relieve constipation.
Beauty Benefits of Rice
Aside from flour, rice also produces other valuable derivatives, namely, rice milk and rice water. Rice water has long been used in Japan for its skin and hair-enhancing properties and is simply the starchy liquid produced when rice is cooked or left to soak. The great thing about rice water is that it can be easily and inexpensively made at home.
Below, we will take a look at some of the benefits that this wonderful, and perhaps lesser known, ingredient holds in supporting your beauty regimen.
Hair Benefits of Rice Water
Rice water is rich in many nutrients including amino acids, B vitamins, vitamin E, zinc, fiber, magnesium and manganese which are all important for healthy hair. However, the presence of an antioxidant known as inositol is what is thought to give rice water its potency when it comes to supporting hair health.
Studies have shown that inositol is able to penetrate damaged hair strands and repair them from within. Along with protecting hair from further damage, inositol is thought to reduce hair loss and promote hair growth. Some of the other benefits of rice water for hair include:
· Strengthening the hair
· Detangling the hair
· Making hair smoother
· Hair growth and length
· Increasing hair shine
Skin Benefits of Rice Water
Rice water has been used for generations in countries like Korea and Japan to help achieve radiant and smooth skin without the use of makeup. Click here for tips to store your makeup.
With an array of products on the market to enhance and nourish your skin ranging from hyaluronic acid to CBD oil, it can be overwhelming and expensive keeping up with the latest trends. Rice water is a gentle and nutrient-rich product that you can easily make at home to aid your complexion, as the benefits below reveal.
Anti-aging Benefits
Rich in antioxidants, amino acids and minerals, rice water may help slow down the aging process by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme called elastase. This enzyme contributes to wrinkle formation and the deterioration of elastin in the skin which is necessary for maintaining skin elasticity and a youthful look. Rice water can therefore be used to help skin stay younger for longer.
Sun Damage Protection
Damage from the sun such as sunburn, redness and itching can be soothed with the application of rice water. Its natural sunscreen properties can protect the skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation and the cooling effect of rice water can also help with sunburn.
Studies have shown that fermented rice water, or rice wine, is particularly helpful in relieving sun damage to the skin by increasing collagen levels in the skin, helping it stay supple and less likely to wrinkle.
Boosts Skin Barrier Health
The top layer of your skin acts as a protective barrier against pollution and other environmental threats. It also helps your skin to retain moisture and stay hydrated reducing issues such as atopic dermatitis and eczema. The starchy content of rice water can be beneficial in protecting and maintaining the skin barrier.
With all of the amazing benefits that rice offers for your health and beauty wellness, consider adding this grain into your life.
