The Heart Health Benefits Of Rice

Enjoy Rice Every Day And Give Your Heart A Healthy Hug

Over the last 20 years, rice consumption in the United States has almost doubled. Perhaps this increase began as a way to stretch a shrinking household budget. Perhaps the rice growers in America got their message across that rice should be a part of everyone's diet. Or perhaps consumers finally found out just how versatile, delicious, and handy rice can be.

No matter what the reason, rice has definitely become a staple in the American pantry. This is a good trend, not only from the viewpoint of a homemaker feeding a hungry family, but as a person concerned with their health - to be precise, their heart health.

Studies focusing specifically on the relationship between consuming rice and heart health have shown overwhelming evidence that rice plays a crucial part in keeping our heart strong. Take a look at this brief summary to see how rice has become your heart's best friend.

Whole Grain Approved

Brown rice has earned the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) label of a 'whole grain' food. According to the FDA and the American Heart Association (AHA), diets high in whole grain foods, low in fat, and low cholesterol, have been shown to help reduce the risk of heart disease. Brown rice is an excellent addition to your whole grain foods.

Lower Blood Pressure

A diet such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) plan has been proven effective in lowering blood pressure. This plan focuses on nutrition strategies, including eating six or more servings of whole grains daily, specifically adding brown rice to your diet. Since just 1/2 cup of cooked brown rice equals one full serving, this is an easy way to take a healthy step toward fighting hypertension.
Folic Acid Friends

The AHA has linked low folic acid levels, along with other B vitamins, to heart disease and stroke. Without enough folic acid and vitamins B-6 and B-12 in the blood, there is the risk of increased levels of homocysteine, which in high amounts has been linked to heart disease, sometimes fatal. Just one cup of enriched rice provides over 20% of the recommended daily amount of folic acid you need for a healthy diet.

Superfood Surprise
 

Much has been said about 'superfoods' such as blueberries, acai, and grapes, but we must remember to include rice in this category. As a matter of fact, whole grains such as brown rice are rich in antioxidants and vitamin E, which have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. Include rice in your list of superfoods to add to your diet and enjoy an easy, inexpensive source of nutrients.

Budget Friendly Nutrition

Speaking of superfoods, many homemakers look at the list of these nutrition powerhouses and shake their heads. Yes, some of these superfoods can put a dent in a budget. The good news is, rice is an affordable superfood option. Not only is rice loaded with the heart healthy nutrients and fiber we all need, but it is very filling. Consider adding a smaller portion of the more expensive superfoods to a larger portion of rice to take advantage of all the superfoods.

Most of us are now aware that rice adds important nutrients and fiber to our diet. We know that enriched white rice and whole grain brown rice can help reduce the risk of many chronic illnesses. But now we know how very important rice is for a healthy heart. With the variety of rice available, it's easy to add rice to your daily diet. Stock your shelves today and give your heart a healthy boost!