Health benefits of brown rice

• Brown rice is rich in manganese that helps to keep our bones healthy and strong.
• It also helps to synthesize fatty acids and cholesterol.
• Consumption of brown rice helps in maintaining blood sugar level of those with insulin resistance.
• Brown rice is known to be rich in selenium which is good for the body it protects the cells from damage caused by free-radicals and abnormal thyroid functions
• Magnesium present in brown rice regulates proper blood circulation in the body.
• The bran present in brown rice contains unsaponifiable compounds and other components that lower the level of LDL cholesterol.
• Brown rice is good source of fiber that in turns helps in proper digestion and cures intestinal blockage and constipation.
• Consumption of brown helps in reducing and maintaining body weight.
• The manganese content in brown rice protects the body against damage from free radicals produced during energy production.
• The selenium content in brown rice plays a critical role in the prevention of cancer.
• There are powerful antioxidants present in brown rice that decrease the symptoms of asthma and the pain and inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Presence of lignans is in abundance in brown rice that prevent breast and other hormonal dependent cancers.
• Brown rice is rich in insoluble fiber that avoids gallstones in women.
• Also increasing consumption of brown rice as whole grains in children, avoid chances of occurrence of childhood asthma.
• Due to high mineral content , it supplies important nutrients for hair, nails, teeth, bones and muscles.
• Consumption of brown rice helps in synthesis of fatty acids, required for healthy nervous system functioning.
• Also the amount of selenium and fiber in brown rice helps in lowering down chances of colon cancer.
• All the women who have crossed the menopause stage, generally complain of high cholesterol level, cardiovascular ailment and high blood pressure problem. They must include brown rice in their diet in order to get relief from such ailments.
• Brown rice is loaded with phytonutrients, that promote sound body, mind and soul.
• The numerous anti-inflammatory compounds present in brown rice helps in reducing wheezing.
• The glycemic index of brown rice is 55 compared to 75 in white of white rice. Now this helps in controlling obesity.

Cooking tips

• It is usually best to first soak the brown rice for 25 to 30 minutes before cooking. This helps in softening the bran layer on the rice.
• Before cooking it is necessary to rinse the soaked rice under the cold running water. It is also necessary to check whether the dirt or debris are removed or present therein.
• Cook one cup of rice in two cups of boiling water or broth. Once the liquid boils, turn down the heat and cover the container. Simmer the rice for 45 minutes.