What do people know about rice? We surely all know that it is one of the most used and consumed ingredients in many places around the world, for some cultures even representing a big part of the everyday calorie intake.
A specific characteristic of Asian food, rice is also consumed in Europe, America and Africa, being appreciated for its richness in complex carbohydrates, which are crucial to our body’s well-being.
Apart from the most popular facts about rice that everybody knows, there are also some aspects and stories that almost nobody knows. We surely found them to be very interesting, and decided to share them with you. You’ll definitely agree with us!
- Rice is cultivated on all continents of the world, except Antarctica.
This is because rice is so adaptable, it can grow pretty much anywhere on Earth. It is extremely easy to cultivate, and also it has one of the highest productivity levels – one single seed can product over 3000 grains.
- The Great Wall of China was built between the XV – XVI centuries, partly using rice
As odd as it sounds, it is true. More exactly, the blocks used in the creation of the Wall were glued with lime mortar and sticky rice.
- If properly stored, white rice remains fresh for a very long time
Provided you keep it in a good place, under a normal temperature, rice can keep fresh for an extremely long period of time – between 10 to 30 years.
Unlike white rice, the brown one lasts for much less; between 3 to 6 months, due to its exterior layer that depreciates through the process of oxidation.
- Rice makes you happier
It has been proven that the complex carbohydrates found in rice stimulate serotonin, which is the hormone that positively influences our happiness levels, helping us have a good state of mind.
- Brown rice has many health benefits
According to research studies, some of the benefits of brown rice are assisting in the digestion process, avoiding to accumulate extra kilograms, helping the cardiovascular system, strengthening our bones, preventing breast cancer and diabetes.
- Rice is a great source of energy
Many people believe that rice represents one of the main energy sources for most Asian people. This is because of its richness in carbohydrates, which is the main “ingredient” our bodies use as fuel. It also contains healthy amounts of vitamin D, calcium, fibers, iron, thiamine and riboflavin.
- Rice does wonders to your heart
Apart from the large quantities of carbohydrates, rice also contains antioxidants that strengthen the heart and keep it healthy. Generally speaking, people who consume rice on a frequent basis are less vulnerable to most common hearth related diseases.
- Beneficial to weight loss diets
Diets based on rice are extremely efficient, and for a good reason: rice is known to satisfy our hunger without giving us those extra kilograms we’re all afraid of. It also minimizes sweet cravings because of its high-quality carbohydrates.
- Muscle building
Because of the amino acids it contains, when served next to a dish that contains meat, rice turns into a magical food that aids shaping and tonifying every muscle in our bodies. This is the main reason a lot of body builders prefer rice as a side dish to their meals.
- Stabilizing blood pressure
Since rice does not contain salt, it represents one of the best foods when having a low blood pressure. Studies show that salt excess is associated to various heart conditions, so consuming more rice plays a role in stabilizing our blood pressure.
Rice is an accessible food that can be consumed in various ways. There are lots of recipes you can find online that you can try, in order to enjoy all the healthy benefits that this wonder food has to offer. We recommend consuming rice at least once a week and strongly believe that it can lead you to a healthier life.
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