Black Rice – The bountiful alternative
In recent times, discussions around fitness and health have been creating quite a buzz all over the world. While an increasing number of people have been adopting one or the other method towards staying healthy and fit, they all seem to be fighting a common troublemaker – The carbs. Almost every form of diet or workout begins with the advice of taking on a low-carb diet to complement their journey.
If you are in India, especially the Southern side, cutting down carbs involves bidding goodbye to the ever-favourite ‘Rice.’ Considering that, Rice is the staple diet in Southern India and mostly Asia as well. If you were to ever converse with a South Indian on their diet preference, they’d gladly say Rice>Rotis. In a situation as such, what can be the alternative? Or do you think there is one?
The answer lies in the ‘Forbidden Rice.’
Originating in China, this variant of rice has an interesting story. It was grown in small quantities and consumed only by the royalty. The common folk were ‘forbidden’ from eating it, earning its unusual name. It’s also known as the emperor’s rice. In Tamil Nadu, it is popularly known by the regional name ‘Karuppu Kavuni’ Rice.
Benefits of Black Rice
Packed with Antioxidants
Black rice is rich in antioxidants, has anti-inflammatory and potential anticancer properties. It possesses anthocyanin, a plant compound which gives it the purple-black colour; also known to improve cardiovascular health.
High on Fibre
Black Rice is a rich source of dietary fibre. The presence of large quantities of phytonutrients, a natural plant chemical, helps cleanse the body of toxins and boosts liver health, by helping it eliminate unwanted substances through its antioxidant activity.
Cholesterol and Diabetes Controller
Black rice is a healthy rice alternative to our normal ones. The compounds - anthocyanin and phytonutrients help combat bad cholesterol (LDL) and aid in keeping overall cholesterol levels under check.
These components further influence blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity in the body. As a result, the body can utilise glucose efficiently, thus helping in the management of diabetes.
Naturally Gluten-Free
Most whole grains contain gluten which may cause negative gastrointestinal effects like bloating and abdominal pain in people who are allergic to gluten or suffer from Coeliac Disease. Black Rice is naturally gluten-free and nutritious; serving as a healthier diet option.
Saaral’s Special – Karuppu Kavuni Arisi
At Saaral, we offer a variant of Karuppu Kavuni Rice which poses as the perfect and healthy alternative to the regular white rice. Replete with nutrients and rich in Iron and Fibre; our variety has a mild nutty taste.
As per the nutrition chart, ½ cup of cooked black rice contains the following:
Calories: 173
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 2g
Fibre: 3g
Glucose: 1g
Black Rice is a great source of Protein, Vitamin E, B2, B3, Beta-Carotene and many other naturally available nutrients such as Calcium, Magnesium, Chromium, Phosphorous, Iron, Zinc and Copper.
Loaded with Lutein and Zeaxanthin, Black Rice is good for eye health too.
To include this superfood in your diet, head to -Add the link to your cart page-
Stay healthy. Stay safe.