Have you spotted a deep black variety of rice appearing in the staple grains section of your grocery store recently? It’s called black rice, named due its deep purple/black color, and also known as “forbidden rice.” And the reason why it’s called “forbidden” is because in ancient China, it was reserved exclusively for royalty and not allowed for public consumption due to its rarity and amazing health benefits. The dark color of black rice is due to its high anthocyanin content, which is also found in blueberries, red grapes, red cabbage, cherries, etc. Anthocyanins are antioxidants that fight free radicals and also reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. But is black rice good for weight loss? Let’s find out:
Black Rice Retains Maximum Nutrients That Boost Weight Loss:
Black rice is typically minimally processed and less polished compared to other varieties of rice, hence it retains maximum nutrients. Black rice is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals like iron and calcium that boost metabolism. Along with dietary fiber, black rice also has protein content; the combination of complex carbs, fiber, and protein makes black rice weight loss friendly. But wait, black rice has a higher number of calories compared to other varieties with 335 calories in just 100 gm compared to 111 calories in brown rice. So, you would need to practice strict portion control with it. Also read: “11 Healthy Alternatives for White Rice for Weight Loss.”
Yet, there’s an additional advantage in black rice that sets it apart from other rice varieties – anthocyanins!
Unveiling the Weight Loss Potential: How Anthocyanins in Black Rice Make a Difference
Anthocyanins are a group of antioxidants that are abundantly found in fruits and vegetables with red, purple, and blue hue. Anthocyanins are antioxidants that belong to the flavonoid family of antioxidants, with water-soluble pigments that fruits, vegetables red and purple pigment. These powerful antioxidants reduce oxidative stress and neutralize free radicals that damage body cells. Experts say foods rich in anthocyanin reduces inflammation and alleviates the risk of life-threatening disease like heart disease, and cancer. This category of antioxidants also reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, lower serum lipid level, minimizes lipogenesis, and also reduces overall body fat, targeting even stubborn belly fat. Anthocyanins also impacts glutathione metabolism – which works in two ways – it helps the body switch from fat production to muscle building, burn off fat, and helps the liver get rid of toxins – all of which add up and boosts weight loss.
Summing up, black rice is undeniably nutritious and can aid in weight loss. However, its high calorie content necessitates strict portion control, just like we would do for any other kind of healthy food. To find out how to include black rice to lose weight, subscribe to the Rati Beauty diet plans on the Rati Beauty app.
Can Anthocyanin Rich Food Help with Weight Loss?11 Healthy Alternatives for White Rice for Weight Loss
