The Forbidden Rice
Despite being less popular than brown rice or wild rice, black rice, known as forbidden rice, is an ancient grain that has even more impressive health benefits than most other closely related rice varieties.
Not only is it the type of rice that is richest in
powerful disease-fighting antioxidants, but it also contains dietary fiber,
anti-inflammatory properties, and has the ability to help stop the development
of diabetes, cancer, heart disease and even weight gain.
Black rice has been eaten in regions of Asia for
thousands of years; in fact for centuries it was reserved for only Chinese
royalty. Today this type of rice is picking up in popularity and popping up in
more health food stores across the US, Australia, and Europe, as people
discover the numerous health benefits that whole grain black rice has to offer.
Black Rice /
Forbidden Rice Nutrition
One serving of black or forbidden rice contains
only around 160 calories, but offers a very high amount of flavanoid
phytonutrients, a good source of important fiber, substantial mineral content
including iron and copper, and even a good source of plant based protein. Just
the outside hull of the grain has one of the highest levels of anthocyanin
antioxidants of any food!
A one-half cup serving of cooked black rice, or
about ¼ cup uncooked, contains approximately (in daily recommended values):
- 160 calories
- 1.5 grams of fat
- 34 grams of carbohydrates
- 2 grams of fiber
- 5 grams of protein
- 4% DV for iron
Wondering how black rice compares to other rice
varieties? Here’s how the different types of rice differ in terms of nutrient
content when we compare an 100gm serving of each kind:
- Polished white rice – contains 6.8 protein, 1.2 iron, 0.6 fiber.
- Brown rice: 7.9 protein, 2.2 iron, and 2.8 fiber.
- Red rice: 7.0 protein, 5.5 iron, and 2.0 fiber.
- Black rice: 8.5 protein, 3.5 iron, 4.9 fiber,
and the highest amount of antioxidants of any rice variety.
You can see that black rice contains the highest amount of antioxidants, protein and dietary fiber of all rices varieties; plus black rice is also a good source of iron, which can be hard to get for plant based eaters who rely on grains and legumes for protein.
Health Benefits of Black Rice
1. Full of Antioxidants
The bran hull of black rice, which is the outermost
layer of the rice grain, contains one of the highest levels of the antioxidant
anthocyanin found in any known food.
Black rice has a deep black or purple color, which
is an indication of its high antioxidant properties, similarly to how deeply
colored antioxidant berries like blueberries, raspberries, and cranberries
appear.
Sources show that the anthocyanin content of black
rice is higher than any other grain, including brown rice, red rice, red
quinoa, or other colored whole grain varieties.
Anthocryanin has the ability to help prevent a
myriad of common but serious illnesses according to numerous studies that have
looked at the benefits of this antioxidant.
Anthocyanin antioxidants have been correlated with:
helping to prevent cardiovascular disease, protecting against cancer that can
be caused by free radical damage, improving brain function, reducing
inflammation and more.
Nutrients are lost from whole grains when the outer
layer, the hull and bran, are removed. Only whole grains which include all of
their naturally occurring parts retain their antioxidants, vitamins, minerals,
and fiber. White rice, in addition to other refined grains, lose these
beneficial properties during the milling process.
While whole grain brown rice and red rice also
contain beneficial antioxidants, only black rice contains anthocyanin.
Additionally, black rice also contains important antioxidant Vitamin E, which
is useful in maintaining eye, skin, and immune health in addition to other
important functions.
2. Protects Heart Health
Studies have shown that black rice decreases
dangerous atherosclerotic plaque formation in the arteries, which is very
important for keeping arteries clear and preventing heart attacks and stroke.
The specific anthocyanins phytochemicals found in
black rice help to maintain healthy cholesterol levels by reducing total
cholesterol, LDL “bad” cholesterol, and total triacylglycerol concentrations.
These are 3 factors commonly involved in cardiovascular disease.
Considering how common heart disease is in almost
every western developed nation today, this is one reason why consuming healing
foods like black rice is so important.
3. Can Help Detoxify the Body
Studies have demonstrated that consuming black rice
can help to detox the body and cleanse the liver of harmful toxic build-up
thanks to the rice’s high antioxidant content.
In a recent animal study, the antioxidant status of
blood, the liver, and one of the main arteries, the aorta, were evaluated in
rabbits that were either fed refined white rice or black rice.
Results showed that the rabbits fed black rice
experienced less oxidative stress (also called free radical damage), contained
more antioxidants in their blood, experienced detoxification in the liver, and
also had reduced plaque build-up in the arteries.
The phytonutrients found in black rice help the
body to reduce inflammation and to cleanse the body of harmful substances that
can contribute to a wide range of conditions.
4. Good Source of Fiber Which Improves Digestive Health
Black rice and other whole grain rice varieties-
like wild, red, or brown rices- have a similar amount of fiber, with about 2-3
grams per half cup serving. The fiber in black rice helps to prevent
constipation, bloating, and other unwanted digestive symptoms. Fiber binds to waste
and toxins within the digestive tract, helping to pull them out and to
contribute to regular bowel function.
The dietary fiber found in black rice can also
importantly help you to feel full after eating and to stay satisfied for a
longer period of time between meals, potentially aiding in weight loss.
Studies have found that a diet high in dietary
fiber from whole grain rice varieties is protective against obesity, heart
disease, diabetes, and digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This is because fiber has the important job of clearing the body of
toxins, helping to reduce inflammation and to clear the arteries as it removes
waste and plague from the body. Black rice can also help prevent or
cure cases of diarrhea, since fiber adds bulk to your stool.
5. A Naturally Gluten Free Grain
Like other rice varieties, black rice naturally
contains no gluten, the protein found in all wheat, rye, and barley products.
It’s estimated that 1 in 7 people are sensitive to gluten- whether they are
aware of it or not- but still test negative for Celiac Disease.
After eating something with gluten in it, those
with a gluten sensitivity suffer many of the same symptoms as those with Celiac
Disease (a confirmed allergy to gluten), including bloating, constipation,
diarrhea, nutrient deficiencies, and an increased risk for developing leaky gut
syndrome. Consuming black rice in place of not only refined grains and
processed flour products, but also all wheat, barley, and rye containing foods-
even those that are whole grain- can help eliminate digestive problems
associated with eating gluten for many people.
6. Helps Slow Down Absorption of Sugar in the Blood, Helping to Prevent Diabetes
Studies have shown that when it comes to the risk
of developing diabetes and even obesity, consuming whole grains is much more
beneficial and preventative than consuming refined carbohydrates.
Compared to eating processed carbohydrates which
are stripped of their fiber, antioxidants, and other nutrients that help to
slow down the absorption of sugar in the blood stream, black rice is a much healthier
option.
Black rice contains the entire bran of the grain
where the fiber is stored, and fiber is able to help glucose (sugar) from the
grain to be absorbed by the body over a longer period of time.
When researchers examined white and brown rice
consumption in relation to type 2 diabetes risk, they found that white rice was
more likely to contribute to insulin resistance and diabetes risk.
The substitution of whole grains, including brown
or black rice, in place of white rice, white bread, pasta, and sweetened
cereals may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes and other complications, in
addition to keeping your weight in check and your energy levels balanced.
7. Better at Preventing Obesity than Refined Grains
It is very important for those with pre-diabetes,
diabetes, or other forms of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance to
consume 100% whole grains, as opposed to processed “white” types that lack
fiber.
The same can be said for those who struggle with
losing weight, since the fiber and nutrients in whole grain rice helps to shut
off hunger signals and prevents overeating. Research has shown that whole grain
rice varieties can help prevent insulin resistance that is related to an
increased risk for obesity.
The History of Forbidden Rice
Black rice is commonly referred to as “forbidden
rice” because of its long and interesting history. As you probably know, all
rice varieties are a substantial and important crop in the diet of nearly every
Asian population, and have been for thousands of years. In China, black rice has been known for being
good for the kidneys, stomach and liver since ancient times.
Thousands of years ago in ancient China, noble
Chinese men took possession of every grain of the black forbidden rice, banning
its consumption among anyone who was not royalty or very wealthy.
The crop was only grown in very limited quantities,
closely monitored, and reserved for only the highest elite class. The common
Chinese people were not allowed to grow or consume this black forbidden rice,
which led to its unique name that it still carries with it today.
Black rice was actually only first introduced to
the United States in the 1990’s, although it’s been enjoyed in other parts of
the world for many more years. Today it is no longer forbidden, but still is
grown in relatively small amounts especially compared to other types of widely
available rice varieties.
Where to Purchase Black Rice
The popularity of black rice and knowledge about
its numerous health benefits is growing in western nations, including in the
U.S, but it still remains much less popular than less healthy white rice and
even similar brown rice.
At this time, you can likely find it in most health
food stores and large gourmet food markets, in addition to Asian supermarkets.
The hope is that as more people learn about black rice’s benefits and demand
it, black rice will probably become more widely available at larger chain
supermarkets and restaurants.
Because the mentioned health benefits of black rice
are found in the bran of the rice, you always want to purchase 100% whole grain
black rice. You can be sure you’re getting the correct type by checking the
ingredient label and looking for the words “whole black rice” as the first, and
ideally the only, ingredient on the list.
How to Cook
Black Rice
Black rice comes from the same plant family as
other colored rices and includes several varieties, such as Indonesian black
rice and Thai jasmine black rice. The different types of black rice contain
very similar health benefits and all have a mild, nutty taste which is similar
to the taste of more familiar brown rice.
Because it is unrefined and denser than white rice,
black rice takes longer to cook. The best results can be achieved by first
soaking your black rice for at least one hour before cooking it, but preferably
for several hours.
If you can plan ahead of time and soak your rice,
you will cut down on the amount of cooking time required and also make the
nutrients in the rice more absorbable.
After soaking your rice, rinse the rice clean and
then place it on the stove top with two cups of water for every one cup of
rice. Boil the rice for at least one half hour if you did soak the rice and for
one hour if you didn’t.
Check the texture of the rice after this time to
see if it is chewy and cooked through; if not, keep boiling until it reaches
the texture you’re looking for.
Black Rice
Recipes
Not sure what to do with black rice? It makes a
delicious side dish all on its own with some salt and pepper, but can also be
added to stir fries, soups and stews, or sprinkled on top of a salad. Add
cooked black rice to homemade veggie burgers, in burritos instead of white
rice, or served with fresh roasted vegetables and your favorite source of
protein.
Some people even chose to grind the dry rice
kernels in a coffee grinder or food processor and then use the ground rice to
bake with, coat fish with, or just to sprinkle over other foods for an extra
antioxidant boost.
Black rice has been used in traditional Chinese
desserts and snacks to make dessert porridge, black rice cakes or breads,
noodles, and more. So as you can see, there are plenty of options for adding
some to your diet.
Another interesting application for black rice is
to use it as a natural food coloring agent. Currently some small manufacturers
add black rice either ground or in extract form to beverages and foods in order
to avoid using artificial dyes and ingredients which can be harmful in numerous
ways.
Try using
black rice in place of brown rice in these healthy recipes:
Rice, Tomatoes and Basil Recipe
This Rice, Basil and Tomato salad is easy,
delicious and a great addition to any meal.
Serves: 4 Total Time: 45 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 C black rice (soaked overnight)
- 2 tsp Sea Salt
- ¼ C Coconut Vinegar
- 2 tsp honey
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- Black Pepper to taste
- 1 lb heirloom tomatoes
- 1 C basil leaves, chopped
DIRECTIONS:
- Bring 2 C water to a boil and add the rice and salt. Return it to a boil and simmer for 30-40 minutes until rice is cooked and the water is evaporated.
- Whisk together the vinegar, honey, coconut oil, salt and pepper. Pour over the rice. Add the tomatoes and basil. Mix and serve.
Rice Salad Recipe
This salad recipe is refreshing and a delicious
addition to any meal or a great afternoon snack!
Total Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 4-6
INGREDIENTS:
- 3 cups cooked black rice
- 1 apple, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- ½ cups walnuts, chopped
- 3 tbsp parsley, chopped
- ¼ cups Coconut Vinegar
- 3 Tbsp coconut oil
- Sea Salt and Black Pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
- In a bowl, combine cooked rice with all ingredients. Mix lightly and serve.
Concerns
with Black Rice
Although black rice contains beneficial nutrients,
grains are usually most beneficial when they are eaten in moderation as part of
an otherwise healthy and well-rounded diet.
Even though black rice does contain more fiber and
antioxidants than refined grains or carbohydrate foods, all grains still have
the ability to effect blood sugar levels, so keeping an eye on portion sizes of
all grains is always a good idea.
It also helps to consume grains like black rice
with a source of healthy fat and some protein. This further delay the time it
takes the carbohydrate’s sugars to impact blood glucose levels.
Ancient, whole grains like black rice can play a
healthy part in someone’s diet, as long as they are mindful of how much they
consume and also make sure to get plenty of filling protein and healthy fats
from other food sources that are better suppliers of these important
macro-nutrients.
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