Wild rice: health benefits and harms

Rice is a valuable cereal, which is a national and staple food in Southeast Asia, China and Japan. The plant is quite demanding, so most of the world's production falls on countries with a subtropical and tropical climate.

What does wild rice look like and where does it grow

There are many types of this plant. One of the most outlandish is wild rice or citric acid. It is also called black because of the unusual dark shell. Like regular rice, it is cereal, but it is not. This culture grows mainly in marshy areas, it is rather difficult to cultivate, hence the high cost. It is noteworthy that in China in the Middle Ages, Tibetan black rice, which was grown in the Himalayas, used only to know.

What is the difference between wild rice and white

Wild or black rice among cereals is the "champion", as it contains many vitamins, proteins and elements. If we compare black and white, then the second one contains very little protein and vitamin B1. Due to the lack of this vitamin in Asia, beriberi (vitamin deficiency) disease, which is characterized by a violation of the processes of carbohydrate and fat metabolism in cells, was very common some time ago. As a result, blood accumulates in the nervous system, which leads to various diseases associated with it. In modern society, this disease is rare, but it clearly demonstrates the danger of mono-diets based on ordinary rice.

Another exceptional feature of wild rice is the anthocyanins or antioxidants in its composition, which give it such a shade.

Composition and calorie content

Speaking about the chemical composition of wild rice, it should first be noted that it contains no cholesterol and practically no fats. The energy value of the product is about 100 kcal per 100 g of product.

It contains (per 100 g):

• Proteins - about 4 g.
• Carbohydrates - about 20 g.
• Fats - less than 1 g.

The chemical composition of black rice:

1. Potassium is a trace element that is responsible for the normal growth of the body. Together with magnesium, it has a positive effect on the work of the cardiovascular system. It is also necessary to maintain fluid balance in the body, transfer and storage of energy.
2. Calcium is the main building block for bone tissue. The strength of bones, teeth and nails directly depends on its quantity. It is also necessary for intracellular metabolism.
3. Magnesium is a substance that plays a regulatory role. It controls more than 300 enzymes in the body, together with potassium it is necessary for the normal functioning of the heart. He also directly takes part in the processing of food in energy, as well as in the absorption of potassium and vitamin C.
4. Phosphorus is a macrocell that is necessary for the restoration and growth of connective and cartilage tissue.
5. Iron is one of the most important elements that is required for the normal functioning of the human body. He participates in the processes of blood formation and oxygen delivery to every cell in the body.
6. Manganese is an element that is necessary for the strength of bones, the formation of cartilage and joints, as well as to maintain regulation of blood sugar. A sufficient amount is the prevention of diabetes.

In addition, wild rice contains vitamins of groups B, A and E, elements: zinc, sodium and copper, as well as folic acid.

What is wild rice good for?

Unlike most rice varieties, wild is not polished, that is, peeled.This process, as a result of which the shell and directly the embryo containing most of the beneficial substances are removed.

Recent scientific studies have shown that due to the presence of insoluble dietary fiber, black rice reduces and eliminates the inflammatory processes in the body that provoke the appearance of allergies and asthma. In addition, it is a dietary product that can be safely included in any diets.

For women

For the female body, wild rice is of particular value, as it contains a large amount of antioxidants. They are important in preventing premature aging. In any body there are free radicals - active substances that damage cells and disrupt the natural processes in them. This primarily affects the condition of the skin: its elasticity, elasticity and healthy appearance are lost. Anthocyanins neutralize the effect of free radicals and thereby prolong the beauty and youth.

Also, do not forget that free radicals damage not only dermal cells, but also others, so the presence of antioxidants in products is extremely important. There is more than enough of them in black rice. This can be seen with the naked eye, since it is they who are the cause of such an unusual color of this cereal. Nutritionists on this indicator put wild rice in a row along with raspberries and blueberries.

Unlike antioxidants, retinol (vitamin E) restores damage to cells and stimulates their growth. Thanks to him, the skin becomes beautiful, supple and supple. That is why it is called the "vitamin of youth" and is released as a separate dietary supplement. It is also an essential component of almost all vitamin complexes, creams and ointments, the action of which is aimed at preventing premature aging and prolonging youth.

All this makes black rice one of the key components of a diet and a healthy diet.

For men

Wild rice also acts especially on the male body. Firstly, it contains a sufficient amount of magnesium and potassium, which in tandem positively affects the work of the cardiovascular system, strengthening it and preventing most diseases, including the occurrence of heart attack and stroke. Secondly, it contains a large amount of protein, which is necessary for muscle growth and during physical exertion.

Scientists noted that regular consumption of wild rice leads to the strengthening of the genitourinary system, as well as the inhibition of bacteria and viruses, which cause diseases associated with it. Due to this, as well as the regulation of blood circulation in the lower sections, cereal improves potency.

During pregnancy

Undoubtedly, any woman wants to give birth to a healthy and strong baby. For this, during pregnancy, it is necessary to use products that contain all the necessary vitamins and elements. In this case, black rice is an indispensable natural and healthy product.

For pregnant women, it is of particular value, since it does not contain gluten, which often causes an allergic reaction, so it can be included in the diet at any time. In addition to this key feature, vitamins, protein and elements saturate the body of the expectant mother and contribute to the proper development of the fetus.

Other beneficial properties of black rice for pregnant women:

1. Wild rice contains a sufficient amount of vitamin B. It eliminates such a common phenomenon in pregnant women as sharp and frequent mood swings.
2. The product contributes to the safe removal of excess fluid from the body due to the diuretic property. This will be especially useful for those suffering from puffiness or obesity.
3. Black rice contains complex carbohydrates, so it quickly and permanently saturates the body.
4. With diarrhea, a product can safely replace many medicines.

When breastfeeding

Breastfeeding provides the newborn with all the necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals. In addition, breast milk protects it in the first 6 months of life.That is why during this period a nursing mother is so necessary to eat right.

Many young mothers are afraid to include exotic products in their diet during this period, including wild rice and in vain. He has the ability to have a positive effect comprehensively on the body of both the mother and the child.

The benefits of wild rice for breastfeeding:

1. It contains a large amount of carbohydrates, which give the mother energy and a feeling of satiety for a long time.
2. Manganese has a positive effect on the nervous system of the newborn.
3. Many women after the birth of a child are faced with such a problem as hair loss, destruction of nails and teeth. Black rice has enough vitamins and minerals to counteract this phenomenon.
4. In case of gastrointestinal tract malfunction, the product quickly and safely restores its work and stops diarrhea.
5. Such rice removes toxins from the body, regulates hormones and improves mood.
6. Vitamin A improves lactation.

For kids

Wild rice can be introduced to children from the moment they can chew on long grains.

The value of this cereal in the diet of children is difficult to overestimate, because it contains all the necessary vitamins and elements for normal development.

1. Due to the presence of group B vitamins and folic acid in black rice, the work of hematopoietic processes is normalized. Therefore, it is an excellent prophylactic of anemia and other diseases associated with the cardiovascular system.
2. Wild rice is high in protein, which is essential for muscle development.
3. Grain is a dietary product, so it can be included in the diet of children prone to obesity.
4. Some elements and antioxidants inhibit the development of malignant tumors.
5. There is practically no sodium in rice, but there is a lot of potassium. How is this good for a child? The fact is that sodium is contained in sodium chloride, so its amount in the body may become excessive, which leads to fluid retention and swelling. Potassium regulates water balance and contributes to the safe removal of fluid from the body.
6. An important macrocell is calcium, which is necessary for the normal development of bone and cartilage.
7. Choline, contained in wild rice, contributes to the normal functioning of neurons and cells of the nervous system. It will provide stress resistance, help to overcome nervousness and anxiety in children.

Rice should not be given to children who have severe obesity, colic and constipation.

When losing weight

Most nutritionists do not recommend using mono-diets based on regular rice for weight loss, as it does not have enough protein and vitamin B1. This distinguishes wild rice from ordinary, it has all the necessary elements and minerals.

There are two types of black rice: Chinese and Thai. They differ only in the fact that the second has more calories, but both are suitable for weight loss.

The reason for the popularity of black rice in weight loss is that in its chemical composition there are practically no fats, and a large amount of carbohydrates provides the body with energy for a long time. In addition, the insoluble dietary fibers that make up this cereal contribute to the elimination of toxins, toxins, food debris and excess fluid. Therefore, if it is necessary to adjust the weight or figure, the first assistant in this is wild rice.

Wild rice in medicine

Like most foods, wild rice has certain medicinal properties. In Eastern medicine, it is used to improve the digestive tract, increase appetite and improve the condition of the skin and hair. However, studies have shown that it has a significantly wider range of medicinal properties.

Cardiovascular health

Thanks to some chemical elements, it has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the heart, regulates blood glucose, and also maintains normal cholesterol levels. It also prevents the formation of plaques on the walls of blood vessels, preventing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Gastrointestinal tract

Black rice contains a lot of fiber, which as a “sponge” cleanses the intestines and stimulates the motility of the stomach, normalizing the digestive tract. It perfectly eliminates constipation, bloating and flatulence.

Sugar digestion

Thanks to complex carbohydrates, their absorption is much slower, which is the prevention of diabetes and the accumulation of excess weight.

Harm and contraindications

Wild rice itself does not pose a threat to health and has no contraindications, however, when using it, you must adhere to the following rules:

1. Do not eat it too much, as this can adversely affect the body. Large amounts of black rice can cause constipation, nausea and pain during flatulence. To benefit from the cereal, you need to eat no more than a handful per day.
2. It is advised to eat it for breakfast, so that carbohydrates saturate the body with energy, and not be stored as fat.
3. Wild rice is best consumed with foods that are high in fiber, such as vegetables or fruits.

How to choose and store

Experts do not recommend buying black rice on the Internet, this can only be done if the seller is verified. The fact is that because of its high cost, it is often mixed with another, cheaper cereal - brown rice, which is also useful, but does not possess all the properties of the wild. Black rice should glisten, be packed in sealed containers or bags. You must also look at the date of manufacture and the shelf life of the product.

Keep wild rice at home preferably in a glass jar, which is tightly closed with a lid. Before pouring it in, put a small head of garlic on the bottom.

Following such simple recommendations will allow you to choose this useful product and preserve its properties for a long time.

How to cook wild rice

Unlike ordinary rice, wild has a shell, and the grain itself is very thick, so a long process of heat treatment will not make it soft and edible. To cope with this, this cereal, like other solid crops, must be soaked before cooking. The optimal time is 7-10 hours.

In order to soak black rice, you need to take a deep container, place it there and pour water. It will help not only become soft grain, but also remove chemicals from its surface that some manufacturers add to increase shelf life. It is better to do this procedure at night, in the morning drain the water and rinse the rice several more times.

In the finished form, the grain becomes 2-3 times larger, so the ratio of rice to water should be an approximate proportion of 1 to 3. The average cooking time is 30-50 minutes.

What you need to know about cooking wild rice:

1. When cooking this cereal, it is necessary to constantly monitor the water level in the pan. Do not worry that there will be too much of it. On the contrary, a large amount will ensure its friability.
2. Even a small amount of boiled black rice acts like a sponge on the intestines. Therefore, to avoid problems in the form of nausea and stool disturbance, vegetables should be added as a side dish. Their amount should be twice the volume of rice.
3. It is best to cook this cereal in coconut milk or chicken broth, it is these liquids that will reveal the quality of rice and complement the taste.
4. Wild rice can be combined with any other products - vegetables, fruits, meat and fish products, so the "flight" of culinary imagination is not limited.
5. Serving black rice is always better cooled, at least to room temperature, in which case its taste will be more saturated. In addition, when cooling, it absorbs the taste of the products that are in the dish.
6. As with ordinary rice, you can also prepare sweet dishes from the wild as a dessert.

Interesting facts about rice

1. It is believed that rice was domesticated more than 7 centuries ago. It is one of the first crops that people began to cultivate.
2. The most ancient finds relating to the use of rice by humans were found on the territory of modern Thailand, they are dated 5 millennium BC.
3. Some species grow up to 6 m.
4. Although the first evidence of human consumption of rice was found in Thailand, India is considered its homeland, because many wild species of this plant grow on its territory.
5. Christopher Columbus brought rice to America. Despite the fact that its territory had its own species, Indian rice took the lead in growing on this continent.
6. Rice came to Russia under Peter I.
7. In Japanese culture, there is a goddess patroness of this cereal, it is represented in the form of a fox. In addition, many temples in her honor were built on the territory of the country.
8. Also, in Japanese culture it is believed that rice has a soul, like a person, therefore, from a young age, the Japanese are taught respectful treatment of this cereal.
9. For a long time there was a rite in China, according to which the emperor had to sow rice on his own, only after that others began to sow it on all plantations.
10. There are legends according to which with the help of rice they checked whether a person was lying. The latter had to put a certain amount of cereal in his mouth and hold it for a certain time, and then spit it out. If the rice was wet, then he was telling the truth, otherwise he was lying.
11. Rice is the main product in the dishes of half the world's population.
12. About half of the rice grown is consumed in areas located no further than 15 km from the planting site.
13. Flour, starch and vodka are made from rice.
14. In 1995, Japan consumed more rice than meat.
15. The plant is very fond of moisture, so artificial swamps are created for it, in which it grows directly from the water.
16. There are a lot of carbohydrates in rice, in the dry residue their amount can reach about 70%.
17. Many manufacturers produce cosmetic powder from rice flour.
18. Rice stalks make paper and cardboard.
19. In Southeast Asia, rice is a symbol of wealth, it was from there that the tradition went to shower newlyweds with this cereal.
20. Many people think that when cooking rice, you need to use 2 times more water than cereal, and this is the main rule for its preparation. But experts say that this cooking method can lead to obesity and diabetes. The fact is that rice plantations use pesticides and other chemicals, as a result, arsenic accumulates in the soil. Therefore, before cooking, it is better to soak the rice overnight.

Photo of wild rice