Red rice originates in China and its main benefit is to help reduce cholesterol. The reddish color is due to its high content of antioxidant anthocyanin, which is also present in red or purple fruits and vegetables.
In addition, it is an integral grain with high nutritional value, being rich in nutrients such as iron and fiber. Red rice is also easy to prepare, and can be cooked in the same way as white rice. Learn how to include rice in the diet without getting fat.
Here are 5 benefits of red rice:
1. Reduce cholesterol
The red rice undergoes a natural fermentation process that produces a substance called monacolin, responsible for the effect that rice has to reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol. In addition, the fibers present in this integral grain also help reduce absorption of fat in the intestine and to better control cholesterol levels.
2. Reduce hunger and improve bowel
Being rich in fiber, the red rice gives a feeling of satiety after the meal, leaving the hunger away for longer. In addition, the fibers also help control blood sugar and improve bowel function, preventing problems such as constipation and diarrhea.
3. Prevent anemia
Red rice is rich in iron, an essential mineral for the adequate transport of oxygen in the blood and to prevent and combat anemia. In addition, it also has vitamin B6, which regulates mood, sleep and appetite.
4. Prevent cardiovascular diseases and cancer
In addition to helping to reduce cholesterol, red rice also helps prevent cardiovascular disease and cancer because of its high content of antioxidants, substances that protect the blood vessels from the formation of atheroma plaques and, consequently, protects the body from problems such as heart attack and stroke.
In addition, it also promotes proper cell renewal by stimulating the immune system to fight against potentially cancerous cells.
5. Help to lose weight
Red rice helps to lose weight by being rich in fiber, nutrients that reduce hunger and increase the feeling of satiety for longer. In addition, the fibers help prevent blood sugar spikes, which reduces fat production. Find out what foods help you gain weight and which ones make you lose weight.
Nutritional information
The following table shows the nutritional composition for 100 g of red rice.
| Nutrient | Quantity in 100 g |
| Energy | 405 kcal |
| Carbohydrate | 86.7 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Fat | 4.9 g |
| Fiber | 2.7 g |
| Iron | 5.5 mg |
| Zinc | 3.3 mg |
| Potassium | 256 mg |
| Sodium | 6 mg |
It is important to remember that the benefits of red rice are obtained especially when associated with a balanced diet and regular practice of physical activity.
How To Make Red Rice
The basic recipe for red rice is made as follows:
Ingredients:
1 cup red rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 chopped onion
2 garlic cloves
salt to taste
2 ½ cups water
Method of preparation:
Put the water to a boil. Sauté the garlic and onion in the olive oil, and when the onion is transparent, add the red rice. Sauté a little more, add boiling water, salt and cook for 35 to 40 minutes over low heat.
