Most of us know that there are several benefits of eating rice, but what most of us might not know is what those benefits are exactly. Although knowing the exact benefits of rice might not be common knowledge, one thing is for certain: it's delicious! Who doesn't love eating rice?

It's an awesome side dish or main plate and can be eaten with just about anything including meat, tofu, vegetables, and more! For the healthy eaters out there or those who just simply love consuming high-quality, high-protein rice, you won't want to stop, and we're going to tell you why. Continue reading to learn about 10 health benefits of eating rice regularly!

1. Natural Anti-Inflammatory and Gluten Free

Do you suffer from gluten sensitivities? Rice is not only scrumptious, but it's gluten-free as well! 

Did you know that the most popular gluten-free grain is rice? This is especially true for people who suffer from celiac disease. It works as a natural anti-inflammatory for our bodies, which is always a great benefit. 

If you have any sensitivities to gluten, then rice can easily be added into your diet without worry. Because it is gluten-free, there won't be inflammation in your gut. It is important to always look for ways to reduce inflammation throughout our bodies, and this is why rice is a great feature for any diet. 

2. Improves Nervous System Health

Is your nervous system in need of some support? Rice is the perfect aid!

Our bodies' nervous systems depend on the use of different B vitamins to run smoothly and function properly. Various types of B vitamins work to help produce neurotransmitters. The neurotransmitters work to help regulate the biological processes. 

Rice is an amazing source of a variety of B vitamins. Because rice is so rich in B vitamins, eating it helps to improve the health of your nervous system.  

3. Good Source of Energy

Feeling tired and run down? Grab a bowl of brown or white rice!

Our bodies rely on a good amount of carbohydrates to act as fuel. When carbohydrates enter our systems, our bodies work to transform those good carbohydrates into energy. But the healthy carbohydrates found in rice aren't only good for turning into energy.

This also helps to ensure proper brain function, as the brain takes this source of energy and uses it as well. Other components found in rice such as all the minerals, vitamins, and much more all aid in increasing the metabolic activity for all of the body's organs. In doing so, our bodies have increased energy levels.

4. Diuretic and Digestive Qualities: Prevents Constipation

Have you been experiencing digestive issues? Eating rice is a sure way to regulate your digestive system. 

In just one ounce of raw rice bran, there are 6 grams of fiber. Rice's high-fiber make up is essential for reducing constipation and regulating the digestive system. Rice also works as a natural diuretic, which helps eliminate water from the body. 

This is beneficial to those who have high blood pressure and other conditions. Eliminating water from the body means you urinate more frequently, which helps to rid the body of uric acid and even helps you lose weight! In return, your kidneys reap the benefits.

Be sure to stay hydrated, however, since your body will be flushing out more water, you'll need a decent supply of water in the body. 

5. Can Help Reduce Cancer Risks

Are you looking for ways to stay proactive in fighting cancer risks? Consuming high-fiber foods like rice helps reduce your chances of getting cancer!

Rice's high-fiber properties aid in digestion and lowering blood pressure. In return, you have a healthier body overall. And keeping a healthy digestive tract means that the body's waste does not sit for long periods of time. 

By keeping the flow moving, there is a lower chance of this waste interacting with healthy cells within the body. This is good for fighting against and preventing intestinal cancer and colorectal cancer. But rice doesn't end its battle with cancer there.

Rice is also rich in vitamins. These vitamins include antioxidants such as Vitamin A and Vitamin C. These help to rid the body of free radicals. 

6. Prevents Obesity 

Have you been on a quest to lose weight but aren't sure which foods help you do so? Look no further than a healthy plate of rice!

Because rice has low amounts of sodium, fat, and cholesterol, it is a great aid in reducing obesity. It's rich in nutrients and has no significant negative impacts on a person's health. Of course, its high-levels in fiber also help to reduce obesity.

7. Can be Used for Skin Care

Are you looking for a natural skin care product but aren't sure where to start? You might be surprised to know that rice actually works as a great skin care product!

Rice is used for skin care both topically and by consuming it. If looking for a topical solution, you can take rice in its powdered form and apply it to the skin. This topical solution is great for skin that is inflamed as the powder will help reduce inflammation. 

It is also used topically to cure other skin conditions as well. Rice water is another way to use rice as a topical solution to skin care. Rice water is used to cool off the skin that is inflamed. 

Brown rice is used more often because of its phenolic compounds. These compounds work to reduce any redness and soothe irritation on the skin. And because of all the antioxidants found in rice, rice slows down the aging process that might affect the skin and delays wrinkles from appearing. 

8. Good Source of Protein

Are you a religious gym goer? Do you live a vegan lifestyle? If so, then rice is a great source of the protein that you need!

Consuming high-protein rice, whether white or brown, is a good way to keep your protein levels where they need to be if working out constantly or sticking to a vegan or vegetarian diet. In 1/4 a cup of this dried brown rice, there are 6 grams of protein. And there are 5 grams of protein in 1/4 a cup of this dried white rice.

Finding foods that are high in protein but still considered vegan or vegetarian can sometimes be difficult. Consuming high-protein rice is an ideal way to supplement other high-protein vegan or vegetarian foods.

9. Promotes Heart Health

Have you been seeking ideas for natural ways to improve your heart's health? If you have been, then consuming rice regularly may be the answer you've been looking for!

As mentioned before, rice is a natural anti-inflammatory. Its anti-inflammatory properties help to decrease the depositing rate of atherosclerotic plaque inside the blood vessel walls. This then decreases your risks for severe heart conditions such as heart attacks or strokes.

Although both brown and white rice have these benefits, brown rice is more beneficial. This is due to brown rice containing the husk, which is where most of the nutrients are found. Rice bran oil is another great source for promoting heart health. 

Rice bran oil is filled with antioxidant properties that reduce cholesterol levels in the body and ultimately promote cardiovascular health. 

10. Controls Blood Sugar Levels and Blood Pressure

Do you suffer from high blood pressure? Are you looking for natural ways to get your blood pressure under control? If yes, then you may want to consider including rice into your diet!

Controlling Blood Pressure

For anyone who suffers from hypertension, consuming rice is a good way to combat it. It contains very low amounts of sodium. Sodium is known for constricting arteries and veins in the body.

Doing so increases the levels of stress or strain placed on the cardiovascular system while your blood pressure rises. In the long run, sodium can have effects on the heart and cause multiple heart conditions. Sticking to low-sodium food reduces these risks. 

Controlling Blood Sugar

But rice also acts to lower blood sugar levels as well. Both brown rice and white rice work as blood sugar regulators, but brown rice is the better choice for this benefit. Because more fiber is found within the husk, brown rice does a better job at slowing down the absorption of glucose in the body.

This slow down of glucose into the body gives the body's insulin time to properly disperse the glucose throughout itself. 

The Many Benefits of Eating Rice Regularly 

There are several benefits of eating rice regularly. Whether you're looking for a protein-rich food for your vegan or vegetarian diet or looking for an awesome pre-workout meal, high-protein rice is an ideal candidate! Brown and white rice work in many ways to improve your body's overall health.