Rice is a staple food for most people not only in India but all over the world. However, in many studies, the question remains in people's minds regarding some side effects caused by it - is rice beneficial or harmful to health?
Rice is a rich source of carbohydrates, which are the main fuel of the body. Carbohydrates help keep you energized and satisfied. However, due to this carbohydrate, people are also keeping their distance from rice. Excessive consumption of carbohydrates can lead to a rapid increase in weight and blood sugar levels.
So should we eat rice or not? Let us understand this in detail.
White rice can be harmful
Health experts view rice as an unhealthy option. Especially the white rice which is used in our homes. White rice lacks vitamins and minerals and can also lead to weight gain. Diabetics are also advised to reduce the consumption of rice, as there is a risk of rapid rise in blood sugar due to high carbohydrate content.
Blood sugar level may increase
People who have diabetes are advised to consume things with a low glycemic index (GI). Generally, things with 55 GI are considered safe for diabetics. The GI of white rice is 64, which may be the reason why white rice is believed to increase the risk of type-2 diabetes.
In a review of studies of more than 350,000 people, researchers found that people who ate the most white rice had a higher risk of type 2 diabetes than those who consumed less.
There is a risk of weight gain
White rice is classified as a refined grain because the bran has been removed from it. Several studies have linked high consumption of refined grains to obesity and weight gain. Apart from this, since white rice also increases blood sugar, there is also a risk of weight gain due to this.
These are the two main reasons that point towards reducing the intake of white rice.
What do experts say?
Health experts say, since we need carbohydrates in the diet, white rice can be eaten in moderation, but brown rice can be more beneficial in place of white rice for maximum benefits.
Many nutrients present in brown rice help in keeping your heart healthy. It is also a rich source of dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion and regulate blood sugar levels. Brown rice is more beneficial for better health.
(PC: Freepik)
