We welcome the relaunch of our refurbished website with some great news to our #LemongrassLovers! We have introduced Black Rice as one of the delicious options with your favourite thai dish. Swap out your noodles or your Jasmin Rice for this gluten free option.
What is Black Rice?
In ancient times, a prized possession and popularly known as the Forbidden rice or Emperor’s rice, the name of this rice is as interesting as its story. As the name implies, a proper permission from royal authorities was a mandate to consume this rice. Eating this rice without seeking permission had life threatening consequences. In China, black rice was exclusively used for the consumption of royal families, which is why it was also known as Emperor’s rice.
Known popularily as a powerhouse of antioxidants, protein, iron, vitamins and minerals; This black rice / Dark Purple rice is loaded with enormous health benefits.
1. Full of Antioxidants
The bran hull of black rice, which is the outermost layer of the rice grain, contains one of the highest levels of the antioxidant anthocyanin found in any known food.
2. Protects Heart Health
Studies have shown that black rice decreases dangerous atherosclerotic plaque formation in the arteries, which is very important for keeping arteries clear and preventing heart attacks and stroke.
3. Can Help Detoxify the Body
Studies have demonstrated that consuming black rice can help to detox the body and cleanse the liver of harmful toxic build-up thanks to the rice’s high antioxidant content.
4. Good Source of Fiber Which Improves Digestive Health
Black rice and other whole grain rice varieties- like wild, red, or brown rices- have a similar amount of fiber, with about 2-3 grams per half cup serving. The fiber in black rice helps to prevent constipation, bloating, and other unwanted digestive symptoms.
A Naturally Gluten Free Grain
Like other rice varieties, black rice naturally contains no gluten, the protein found in all wheat, rye, and barley products. It’s estimated that 1 in 7 people are sensitive to gluten- whether they are aware of it or not- but still test negative for Celiac Disease.
Helps Slow Down Absorption of Sugar in the Blood, Helping to Prevent Diabetes
Studies have shown that when it comes to the risk of developing diabetes and even obesity, consuming whole grains is much more beneficial and preventative than consuming refined carbohydrates (10).
Better at Preventing Obesity than Refined Grains
It is very important for those with pre-diabetes, diabetes, or other forms of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance to consume 100% whole grains, as opposed to processed “white” types that lack fiber.
Wondering how black rice compares to other rice varieties? Here’s how the different types of rice differ in terms of nutrient content when we compare an 100gm serving of each kind:
- Polished white rice – contains 6.8 protein, 1.2 iron, 0.6 fiber.
- Brown rice: 7.9 protein, 2.2 iron, and 2.8 fiber.
- Red rice: 7.0 protein, 5.5 iron, and 2.0 fiber.
- Black rice: 8.5 protein, 3.5 iron, 4.9 fiber, and the highest amount of antioxidants of any rice variety.