Health Benefits of Brown Rice, Uses And Its Side Effects

Brown rice is beneficial for diabetic and hyperglycemic individuals. It has a low glycemic index which is helpful in reducing insulin surges and assists in the stabilization of blood sugar levels in the body.

A comparative study conducted in this regard has revealed that it is rich in phytic acid, fibre and essential polyphenols. It is a complex carbohydrate which helps in slower release of sugars as compared to white rice.

Brown rice is rich in powerful antioxidants which extend their protection against the damage caused by oxygen free radicals. It contains an important antioxidant enzyme called superoxide dismutase which protects the cells from oxidation damage during energy production.

A comparative study involving white and brown rice has suggested that brown rice exhibits superior radical scavenging activity and aids in the prevention of various oxidation-mediated diseases such as coronary heart diseases.

Brown rice is instrumental in seeking weight control for the people combating with obesity. It contains manganese which helps to synthesize the body fats. A research study conducted in this regard has revealed that consumption of whole grains such as brown rice has positive effects on the body with respect to reduction in body mass index and body fat.

Brown Rice also enhances the activity of glutathione peroxidase, an antioxidant enzyme and helps elevate the levels of HDL cholesterol in the obese individuals.

Germinated brown rice helps in the prevention of neurodegenerative complications such as Alzheimer’s disease attributing to the abundance of gama-aminobutyric acid.

Sprouted brown rice contains healthful components which helps in the inhibition of harmful enzyme called prolyl-endopeptidase which is associated with Alzheimer’s disease. It is also beneficial for other cerebral-related disorders such as dementia and amnesia.

Sprouted brown rice is beneficial for the mental health of the lactating mothers. An investigative study has shown positive results in the nursing women with respect to reduction in mood disturbances, stages of depression and fatigue.

It has also suggested that consumption of brown rice during lactation enhances body’s ability to resist stress and improves overall immune defence.

Brown rice is a healthful staple which can be added to the daily diet for keeping the digestive system healthy. Fibre content also brings relief from other troubling conditions such as constipation and colitis.

Fibre present in brown rice it helps regulate the bowel function and keeps a fuller feeling. A comparative study investigating the effects of white rice and brown rice during gastric digestion has made it qualitatively evident that the bran layer on brown rice prevents the absorption of acid and humidity resulting in better texture retention.

Brown rice is rich in selenium which is beneficial for a healthy heart. Consumption of whole grains such as brown rice helps reduce the blockage of arteries due to plaque build-up. This protective action is contributory in the reducing the risk of cardiac disorders such as high hypertension and vascular diseases.

Studies conducted in this regard have suggested that the tissue surrounding the grain of brown rice contains a healthful component which acts against the endocrine protein angiotensin II, implicated in the development of high blood pressure and atherosclerosis or hardening of arteries.

Brown rice is a healthy option for maintaining healthy levels of cholesterol attributing to the presence of naturally occurring oils. An investigative study has revealed that it possesses hypocholesterolemic qualities that regulate cholesterol catabolism. Brown rice contains beneficial nutrients that help in lipid and glucose metabolism.

Another study conducted has revealed that consumption of brown rice has shown significant improvement in the serum and HDL cholesterol concentrations in the subjects with chronic ethanol abuse. It has also suggested germinated brown rice extract helps in preventing the rise in the liver triglycerides due to excessive alcohol intake attributing to the presence of gamma-aminobutyric acid.

Brown rice is beneficial for the smooth functioning of the brain and nervous system. It helps in accelerating the metabolism in the brain attributing to the presence of vitamin B and essential minerals such as manganese. Magnesium present in it balances the activity of calcium in the body and helps in the regulation of nerves and muscle tone.

Brown rice prevents the sudden surge of calcium into the nerve cells and activation of nerve. This aid in keeping the nerves and muscles relaxed and prevent excessive contraction. Vitamin E present in it also plays a vital role in preventing various brain diseases caused due to oxidative damage.

Germinated brown rice possesses anti-depressant qualities and helps in combating anxiety related disorders. An investigative study has suggested that germinated brown rice contains essential amino acids such as glutamine, glycerine and GABA. These inhibitory neurotransmitters facilitate reduction in the allowance of messages associated with anxiety, depression and stress in the brain resulting in a relaxed state of well-being.

Brown rice is helpful in the treatment of insomnia. It is a natural source of sleep hormone melatonin. It enhances the quality of sleep by relaxing the nerves and increasing the sleep cycle.

Brown rice is helpful in the maintenance of healthy bones. It is rich in magnesium which along with calcium provides the bones their physical structure. Magnesium-rich brown rice prevents bone demineralization and is beneficial for medical conditions such as arthritis and osteoporosis.