Charcoal-colored, gluey, and rising from the land of China, black rice is a rare rice species. Grown in small quantities in Asia and around the world, this emperor’s rice used to be the possession of the elite because of its production and health benefits. We present a sneak peek into the history and benefits of this uncommon variety you might not have seen before.
The Roots Of Black Rice
This atypical form of carbohydrate, known as Chack-hao in Manipur, is said to be originated in China. Black Rice is called the ‘forbidden rice’ because according to ancient Chinese legends, it was among a number of foods that were set aside only for the Emperor and the Royal Family due to their quality, production, and health benefits and the common man was not allowed to consume or produce it. It was the food of the elite and continues to maintain a similar status. Although available worldwide, black rice is still produced in small quantities and is generally available in gourmet stores.
Nutritional Value Of Black Rice
Black rice has a high nutritional value and contains high amounts of Vitamin E, bolsters the immune system, and protects cells from free radical damage. It is the only variety of rice that contains the highest level of anthocyanin, the purple and dark red pigments that color and add valuable nutrients to blueberries, grapes, blackberries, dark cherries, raspberries, and acai berries. It is an antioxidant associated with various health benefits like memory improvement and decreased risk of heart disease.
Health Benefits Of Black Rice
When we think of rice with health, we naturally think brown rice. However, this unusual variety has much more to offer than our quintessential brown rice.
- A typical serving of black rice gives you 160 calories, 5 g fat, 34 g carbohydrates, and 2 g dietary fiber with no cholesterol or saturated fat.
- Black rice is naturally gluten-free, unlike other varieties of rice.
- It has high amounts of antioxidants, especially anthocyanin.
- It helps control blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream
- Black rice bran helps prevent inflammation and indigestion.
- Its antioxidants and no cholesterol help in preventing several heart diseases.
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