White Rice is one of the most commonly eaten grains all over the world. It’s super versatile, and can be adapted to complement a wide range of flavor profiles. Despite its prevalence, white rice tends to get a bad rap because of how it’s processed. However, is it worth skipping over it completely?
To get the scoop on what eating white rice really does to your body. Turns out, there are some surprising side effects—both good and not so good.
You might have more energy than usual.
White rice is a source of carbohydrates, which is the main source of fuel for your body. Many varieties of white rice are fortified with B- vitamins that may help support energy levels. Each B vitamin is essential to get a dose of each B vitamin for gaining energy. Too little of it will limit your body’s energy production, which can potentially have a negative impact on your metabolic and general health.
You could consume arsenic.
White basmati rice from California, India, and Pakistan may contain less arsenic than other types of rice. Some options that are lower in arsenic are amaranth, quinoa, bulgur, and farro. You can also look at whether the arsenic levels are lower or higher in the region where your rice was grown.
Your bones might become stronger.
It turns out that eating white rice may provide a significant benefit to bone health.
“We all know calcium and vitamin D are critical nutrients for bone health,” Manaker explains. “However, manganese, an unsung bone health hero vitamin, is contained in white rice.”
You may be more prone to getting metabolic syndrome.
“While additional research is needed,” Manaker says, “several studies imply a relationship between white rice consumption and metabolic syndrome risk.”
The Mayo Clinic defines metabolic syndrome as “a group of disorders that occur together and increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.” High blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, high blood pressure, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels are among the problems.
According to one study published in the journal Heart Asia, those who ingested the most white rice had a 30% increased risk of metabolic syndrome. Although not severe, it is noteworthy nonetheless. If you are at risk of any of these conditions, try substituting brown rice for white rice.
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