Maybe is less popular than wild or brown rice, but black rice, better known as “the forbidden rice” has unique and some of the most impressive health benefits than the other closely related varieties of rice.
Black rice has amazing anti-inflammatory properties. It is also rich in dietary fiber and has an ability to stop the development of cancer, diabetes, heart disease and weight gain.
The forbidden rice has been consumed in regions of Asia for million years. In the past, it was only reserved for Chinese royalties. Nowadays, this rise is spreading really rapidly all over the world because many people are interested in black rice due its countless health benefits.
The History of “The Forbidden Rice” Black rice is usually referred to as “forbidden rice”. This rice has a long and very interesting history. In China, black rice has been celebrated for being good for the stomach, liver and kidneys since antediluvian times. In ancient China, many noblemen took possession of each grain of the black forbidden rice, forbidding its consumption among every person who was not very wealthy or royalty.
The crop was simply grown in limited amounts, closely monitored, and kept for only the highest elite classes. The ordinary Chinese people weren’t allowed to consume or grow this rice that led to its exclusive name, which it still carries with it today. Actually, the forbidden rice was first introduced to the USA in the 1990’s, though it has been enjoyed in many other parts of the world for many years. Now it is no longer forbidden but still is cultivated in relatively small quantities especially compared to other sorts of available rice varieties.
The Forbidden Rice Health Benefits
Here are some of the most impressive health benefits of the black rice:
- Rich in Antioxidants
Black rice is the greatest in powerful disease-fighting antioxidants. As a good antioxidant source, black rice can help you to flush out body toxins and wastes on a regular base. Antioxidants can also be found in tea and coffee but black rice is definitely N.1 rich in powerful antioxidants.
- Improves Cardiovascular Health
Many studies have proven that the forbidden rice reduces the formation of atherosclerotic plaque in the arteries that is significant for keeping them clear and preventing stroke and heart attacks.
- Detox Your Body
Researchers have shown that eating black rice can help to cleanse the liver of toxins and detox your body thanks to the high antioxidant content.
- Improves Digestive Health
Black rice is a good source of fiber that helps to prevent bloating, constipation and many other digestive problems.
- Helps Weight Loss
The dietary fiber found in this rice can also significantly aid you to stay satisfied for a longer period of time and to feel full after eating. Consequently, it helps in weight loss.
- Prevents Obesity and Diabetes
Black rice is much better at preventing obesity than most refined grains. It is a natural gluten free grain. Black rice is truly significant for diabetes, pre-diabetes, insulin resistance, or some other form of metabolic syndrome to consume organic whole grains, as opposed to processed “white” rice that lacks fiber.
- Has Anti-Cancer Effects
Anthocyanin, as other antioxidants, aids protects the body from free-radical damages that can easily lead to cancer. Many studies have demonstrated that the forbidden rice shows promises in preventing the spread of many types of cancer, but is definitely not a cure.
More research need to be made in this area. Your Health Tubers will follow this topic and will gladly keep you updated.
Nutrition per serving:
One serving of black rice is usually ¼ cup (uncooked):
- 161 calories
- 34 g carbohydrates
- 4 g protein
- 5 g fat
- 2 g dietary fiber
- 1 g sugar
- No cholesterol
- No saturated fat