Is Rice Healthy?
Rice is incredibly healthy! Unfortunately for rice, it’s gotten mixed up in the low-carb, Ketogenic effective diet. People in Asian countries, such as Japan, eat a lot of rice. The longevity of their lives and obesity rates are much better than those in the United States.
Just like anything, rice can be made unhealthy if you prepare it with calorie-heavy ingredients and overeat.
What’s the Best Rice for Weight Loss?
The truth is losing weight has much more to do with the amount of calories you eat than the type of rice you’re consuming. Eating too many calories for your activity level means you’ll probably gain weight. Eating fewer calories than you burn means you’ll lose weight.
There are various types of rice, each of which has its merits. Although there isn’t any particular type of rice that would help you lose weight, you can be smart about how much rice you’re making and eating, and what nutrients it contains.
It may also be helpful to look at the calories.
White Rice: 204 calories in 1 cooked cup
Brown Rice: 216 calories in 1 cooked cup
Jasmine Rice: 180 calories in 1 cooked cup
Wild Rice: 166 calories in 1 cooked cup
In general, rice is high in carbohydrates. If you’re following a low-carb or Keto diet, chances are rice will rarely be on your menu. If you’re not, however, rice is a great way to get carbohydrates without any fat or additives. The grain is inexpensive, is easy to cook, and tastes great.
As you’re out shopping for rice, pay attention to how much P and fiber are in each serving. You can also look at some of the other micronutrients rice contains. Some are high in B vitamins and antioxidant flavonoids.
In general, science tells us that whole grains are better for your health. So, while eating brown or wild rice may not cause you to lose weight, it can certainly help keep you feeling healthy and well.
White Rice vs. Brown Rice
Brown Rice still has a protective coating called the hull. The hull actually contains a surprising amount of nutrients. Although brown rice and white rice are similar in the number of carbohydrates they contain, brown rice is richer in fiber and protein.
The fiber and protein in brown rice help keep you feeling full, and brown rice also has less of an impact on your blood sugar. So, if you have diabetes or a blood sugar issue, brown rice may be a better choice.
Amazing Foods that Pair Well with Rice and Grains
Grains are an excellent, heart-healthy addition to your meal plan. If you’re trying to eat less meat, a great choice to pair with your rice is beans! Together, rice and beans make a complete protein, which means you’re getting all the essential amino acids your body needs to function at its best.
Rice also pairs well with just about any meat—you can mix in chicken, ground beef, or even fish.
SO next time that you craving some delicous Rice. Treat yourself. Just be caustious that you do not overeat. If you ever have any questions feel free to reach out to the CrossFit AFterBurn Team
