Consumed by millions, found everywhere, rice has been underestimated by some as a prime health food. The health and medicinal qualities of rice are very impressive, especially so for the least processed varieties.

- anti-carcinogenic qualities

- good for weight loss

- source of B vitamins

- natural fiber source

There some reports suggesting that rice is even able to reverse the effects of thickening of the arteries or arteriosclerosis. Like many of the foods we have talked about, rice can be served on it’s own as well as being part of a multitude of vegetarian or even non-vegetarian recipes. I have had boiled rice with just light soy sauce as an example.

You can of course, add the seasoning of your choice. Just try to use low fat and low salt flavorings. This is one of the easy foodstuffs to keep your portion serves under control. In other words, rice can be very filling. Of late, I have been substituting parboiled rice which has most of the powerful nutrients and fiber of brown rice, but does not take anywhere near as long to prepare. I would tend to discount white rice, as the process involved strips much of the vitamins and the fiber that brown rice has. Think how white bread compares to wholemeal varieties and you get the picture. In a future article we will explore other grains that will even match rice as a healthy staple food, to both maintain healthy body-weight and help with weight loss programs.

Be wise when making changes to your diet. Do your research and ask your doctor’s opinion.

For more information on diets, best cures and general health information, please visit the sites mentioned below.