Eating Rice: The Myths and Facts

Rice is one of the most popular grains eaten in the world right now. Part of it is due to its versatility and ability to grow in tough environments. Lately, rice has become the target of myths and misconceptions concerning its healthiness. Read on to learn about the most popular rice myths and whether or not they are true.

1. Rice contains gluten

Rice is commonly associated with gluten all around the world. This is understandable because rice is a carbohydrate, and most people associate carbohydrates with gluten. But rice is actually gluten free; if you suffer from a gluten intolerance, like celiac disease, you can eat rice without fear.

2. Eating rice will make you fat

This myth is the big reason that rice is excluded from so many fad diets as of late, especially those that claim to be low carb. Rice is actually a great addition for any diet, including weight loss diets. The popular grain is simple to digest, cholesterol free, and low in fat. Rice does contain carbs though and won’t work as part of a keto diet.

3. Rice lacks protein

Rice is actually packed with protein. A single cup of rice possesses 304 grams of protein, making the nutrient the second most abundant rice has.

4. Rice is high in salt

Rice is not high in sodium at all. This myth probably comes from the fact that rice is often paired with sodium laden foods and condiments, like soy sauce and teriyaki sauce.

5. Eating rice at dinner time will make you put on weight

Rice is very easy for your body to digest which can help to improve your quality of sleep. Eating rice increases your leptin sensitivity. Leptin is a compound that is created by fatty tissue that manages how fat is stored in your body.

6. Rice is hard to digest

Rice is actually considered to be a probiotic which improves the environment of your gut, helping it to cultivate good bacteria.