Red rice is native to China and its main benefit is to help lower cholesterol. The reddish color is due to its high antioxidant anthocyanin content, also present in red or purple fruits and vegetables.
In addition, this type of rice is a whole grain with high nutritional value, rich in nutrients such as iron and fiber. Red rice is also easy to prepare and can be prepared in the same way as white rice.
The main advantages of red rice are
Red rice undergoes a natural fermentation process that produces a substance called monacolin K, which is responsible for the effect of this rice on the reduction of bad cholesterol and the increase of good cholesterol. In addition, the fibers of this whole grain also help reduce the absorption of fats in the gut and better control cholesterol levels, as well as being rich in anthocyanins.
Because it is rich in fiber, red rice helps to increase the size of faeces and mobilize the gastrointestinal tract, favoring its exit, being excellent for constipated people.
Red rice is rich in iron, an essential mineral for the proper transport of oxygen in the blood and to prevent and combat anemia. In addition, it also contains vitamin B6, which acts on regulating mood, sleep and appetite.
In addition to helping lower cholesterol, red rice also helps prevent cardiovascular disease and cancer by its high antioxidant content, substances that protect blood vessels from the formation of ateroma plaques and therefore protect the body from problems such as heart attacks. stroke.
In addition, it also promotes proper cell renewal, stimulating the immune system to combat potentially cancerous cells.
Red rice helps you lose weight because it’s rich in fiber, nutrients that reduce hunger and increase the feeling of satiety for longer.
In addition, fibers help prevent blood sugar spikes, reducing fat accumulation in the body and fat production.
Because it is rich in anthocyanins, red rice could help prevent diabetes. This antioxidant can help regulate blood sugar, as some studies have acted directly on an enzyme that controls blood sugar.
In addition, it has an average glycemic index, that is, moderately increases blood sugar.
The following table shows the nutritional composition per 100 g of red rice:
It is important to remember that the benefits of red rice are best achieved when combined with a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
The basic recipe for red rice is prepared as follows
Ingredients:
1 cup red rice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 chopped onion; 2 garlic cloves; salt to taste; 2 1/2 cups water;
How to prepare
Let the water boil. Sauté the garlic and onion in the oil, and when the onion is clear, add the red rice. Sauté a little more, add boiling water, salt and cook for 35 to 40 minutes over a low heat.