Love eating rice? Well, that is one habit that will be difficult to quit if you're trying to lose weight or are suffering from diabetes. But the good news here is that there are different types of rice, of which some are healthy. There are also tonnes of healthy recipes with rice you must try if you're on a weight loss plan or any other diet plan. You won't have to give up rice altogether. Here's how you can include rice in your diet the healthy way:
Chuck the normal white rice and go for arborio rice. It is mainly used to cook risotto or rice-based salads. It is a healthy combination of proteins, vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in carbohydrates, which you need even if you are on a weight loss plan. Enjoy it with some nice protein and calcium rich toovar dal, if not some risotto. If not arborio rice, you can go for brown rice. Brown rice speeds up your metabolism and is rich in fibre. It is also low in calories.
For diabetes
Diabetics are often advised to give up on rice because of its high glycemic index (GI), which increases your blood sugar level. Instead of giving up on rice, you can choose brown rice if you're diabetic. It has a lower GI as compared to white rice, which helps you maintain your blood sugar level. Replace all your favourite rice meals with brown rice. You can even cook your favourite Chinese fried rice using brown rice.
To reduce cholesterol
Brown rice, again, to the rescue for those having cholesterol trouble! Brown rice is one of the natural remedies to reduce cholesterol. It is low in GI and the bran of the brown rice contains oil that is highly unsaturated which helps reduce your cholesterol level.
To prevent constipation and dehydration
Cook a cup full of rice in three to four cups of water. Once the rice granules are half-cooked, strain the liquid, add some salt or sugar to taste and drink while warm. You know what this is. Rice water or kanji, has a lot of health and beauty benefits. One of them is preventing constipation and dehydration. It is also a good source of energy.
To deal with eczema
After you have made kanji or rice water, set it in the refrigerator to cool down. Take a clean washcloth, dip it in water and apply it on your face for a few minutes. Let it air dry for some time. Rice water contains vitamins, minerals and amino acids that is great for the skin.
Though rice can be healthy, nutritionists suggest that you include rice only once in your meals in a day.
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