Rice (Oryza sativa) is the edible seed of cereal grass and one of the most widely consumed staple foods across the globe. Over half the world's population relies on it as a primary source of carbohydrates. Commonly boiled or steamed, rice is also used in the form of gluten-free flour and features prominently in the cuisines of Asia, Africa and Latin America.
In this blog, we will cover some advantages of eating rice.
Advantages of rice
Below are some health benefits of rice:
- Good source of energy: Rice is rich in carbohydrates, which can serve as the body's main source of fuel and help maintain energy levels throughout the day.
- Supports digestive health: Brown rice, in particular, contains dietary fibre that can promote healthy digestion and help prevent constipation.
- Naturally gluten-free: Rice is considered safe for people with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity, making it a reliable grain option for gluten-free diets.
- Low in fat and cholesterol: Plain rice contains minimal fat and no cholesterol, which can support heart health when consumed in moderation.
- Provides essential nutrients: Depending on the variety, rice can offer B vitamins, magnesium and iron, which are important for overall health and metabolism.
How to prepare rice?
Preparing rice is simple and requires just a few steps. Here’s a basic method for cooking plain white rice:
- Rinse the rice: Wash the rice under cold water 2–3 times to remove excess starch. This helps prevent it from becoming too sticky.
- Measure water and rice: Use a standard ratio of 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of water (this may vary slightly depending on the rice type).
- Boil the water: In a saucepan, bring the measured water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt if desired.
- Add the rice: Stir in the rinsed rice, lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pot with a lid.
- Cook gently: Let it simmer for 15–20 minutes without lifting the lid or until the water is fully absorbed.
- Rest and fluff: Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Note: Cooking times and water ratios can vary for different types of rice (e.g. brown, basmati, jasmine), so it’s helpful to check package instructions.
Conclusion
Rice is good for energy, digestion and overall nutrition, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. However, while rice supports daily health, it’s still important to prioritise regular health check-ups and medical care, especially as you grow older.
Having health insurance ensures you’re covered for routine screenings, doctor visits and unexpected medical expenses. For older adults, senior citizen health insurance offers added benefits like cashless hospitalisation, pre- and post-hospitalisation cover and access to specialised care.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.