Imperial Black Rice - Why The Forbidden Rice Is Useful

Black rice is a cereal cultivated in Asia, China, Korea and Japan. It is characterized by a purple color, and it is due to the content of anthocyanins. This is one of the reasons why it is considered a superfood. Interestingly, in ancient China, black rice was considered so unique and nutritious that it was forbidden to be eaten by anyone except the emperor and his family - hence the name imperial rice.

Culture is a source of protein, vitamins and is rich in iron, manganese, carotene, fiber, phosphorus, magnesium. Unlike ordinary rice, this one contains many times more nutrients.

Health benefits

Black rice decoction is used to strengthen the immune system and is also used in the prevention of respiratory diseases, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, liver and kidney problems.

Consumption of berries is recommended in disorders of the digestive system, vision, has an energizing and rejuvenating effect. The fact that it does not contain gluten makes this type of rice more preferred, especially by people who suffer from gluten intolerance.

The antioxidants in rice protect cells from damage caused by molecules known as free radicals. Oxidative stress is associated with an increased risk of inflammation, chronic and heart disease, including Alzheimer's and some cancers. Black rice contains over 23 plant compounds with antioxidant properties.

Consuming black rice can help reduce bad cholesterol and triglycerides, thus protecting the health of your heart and cardiovascular system.

Black rice contains high amounts of lutein and zaexanthin - carotenoids that are associated with eye health. They act as antioxidants and protect the eyes from free radicals that damage them. Specifically, lutein and zaexanthin protect the retina by filtering out harmful blue light waves. Studies show that these antioxidants can help combat age-related macular degeneration, which is the leading cause of blindness worldwide. They also reduce the risk of cataracts and diabetic retinopathy.

Including black rice in your diet can help you lose weight, thanks to the fiber that is in it. A study conducted among 40 women for 6 weeks showed that those who consumed black rice 3 times a day lost weight significantly compared to those who ate white. In addition, it helps reduce the risk of fatty liver, even with a diet that includes more fat.

Also, thanks to the fiber and anthocyanin in the composition, the consumption of the crop reduces blood sugar levels, which makes black rice dishes a good choice for people with diabetes and those who for some reason control blood sugar.

In cooking it is used to make puddings because of the interesting purple color that it acquires after heat treatment. It is added to salads, soups and main dishes.

What is special about it is that it has a harder shell, so it is necessary to pre-soak. Then it is necessary to cook for about 30-35 minutes on medium heat. It combines perfectly with both fruits and vegetables, various types of meat, seafood and nuts.

You can find black rice in organic stores and various hypermarket chains.