Black rice

Black rice (also known as purple

rice or forbidden rice) is a range of rice types, some of which are glutinous rice. Varieties include but are not limited to Indonesian black rice and Thai jasmine black rice. Black rice is high in nutritional value and contains 18 amino acids, iron, zinc, copper, carotene, and several important vitamins. The grain has a similar amount of fiber to brown rice and like brown rice, has a mild, nutty taste. In China, black rice is claimed to be good for the kidney, stomach and liver; these claims have not been independently verified. Black rice is a deep black color and usually turns deep purple when cooked. Its dark purple color is primarily due to its anthocyanin content, which is higher by weight than that of other colored grains but more limited in the number of different anthocyanin species present. It is suitable for making porridge and it can also be used for making dessert, traditional Chinese black rice cake or bread. In China, noodles made from black rice have been produced. Thai black jasmine rice, while not as prevalent as the white and brown varieties, adds more vibrant color to meals, as well as providing additional health benefits. Although not very common, black rice is currently one of the healthiest food types that can be obtained today. Packed with a wide array of nutrients, black rice has a very rich and interesting history. As most people know, rice is a base food source in Asia. During the years

when China was ruled by an emperor, black rice was dubbed as the "Forbidden Rice". It was cultivated in very small amounts because it was only for the emperor's consumption. Although no such ban is being practiced nowadays, black rice is still very much produced in low amounts, especially when compared to brown and white rice.

Health benefits of black rice

As already mentioned, black rice is known for its many health properties. For those who are currently wondering exactly what they are, here's some information on what can be gained by eating the forbidden grain. Contains a large amount of antioxidants. Black rice is a good source of antioxidants - a substance known for helping individuals flush out body wastes on a regular basis. Antioxidants can be found in coffee and tea but is definitely more prevalent in black rice. Notice the black appearance of this rice? The color can be attributed to the same chemicals that give acai berry and blueberries their distinctive coloring. The very same chemicals are also responsible for the high antioxidant count of the two.

Heart attack preventive. Studies show that black rice contains a large amount of anthocyanins, an ingredient that is capable of lowering the risk of heart attack. It does this by preventing the buildup of plaques in the arteries which is the most common reason why heart attacks occur. Even better, it was revealed that anthocyanins are more capable of controlling cholesterol levels than any other food supplement available today.

Other possible health benefits. Aside from the two mentioned that have already been proven by science, black rice is also being looked at as possible prevention from serious illnesses. Some of the diseases it can prevent includes include Alzheimer's, diabetes and even cancer.

Comparison of different rice types There are currently different rice types available today with the most common one being the white variety. Out of all the the types, however, of black rice is found to be the one containing highest amount nutrition that helps with growth. Here's some information on the different rice colors on their content.

Polished white rice - contains 6.8 proteins, 1.2 irons, 0.5 zinc and 0.6 fibers. Brown rice - contains 7.9 protein, 2.2 iron, 0.5 zinc and 2.8 fiber Purple rice - 8.3 proteins, 3.9 irons, 2.2 zinc and 1.4 fibers. Red rice - 7.0 proteins, 5.5 irons, 3.3 zinc and 2.0 fibers. Black rice - 8.5 proteins, 3.5 irons, zero zinc and 4.9 fibers.