Over half the world eats rice, yet many people don't know it's a valuable source of nutrition. Adding rice and other whole grains to your breakfast provides numerous health benefits. Here are three reasons why you should eat rice regularly.

What Rice Does for Your Body

1. Supply Energy

As a carbohydrate, rice contains large amounts of glucose, which converts into energy that fuels your body and brain. Having rice and other whole grains for breakfast helps you maintain your energy throughout the day.

2. Provide Nutrients

Brown rice is a rich source of necessary vitamins and minerals like manganese, selenium, magnesium, and thiamin. Eating just one cup can provide the majority of your daily manganese requirement, which will aid metabolism. Thiamin, also known as vitamin B1, contributes to your metabolism as well, and a deficiency can lead to a decline in mental and cardiovascular function.

3. Regulate Blood Flow

People with hypertension who consume more rice can help reduce the strain on their cardiovascular system. A study found a decrease in cardiovascular disease among men who ate whole-grain cereals. Additionally, the body is better at regulating insulin levels with the glucose in whole grains. Eating brown rice for breakfast can also lower your risk for diabetes. 

4. Cut Out Gluten

With no gluten, white, brown, and wild rice are safe for people with celiac disease and other gluten intolerances. However, you should still double-check the product label when buying a bag to ensure the rice hasn’t been exposed to other gluten products. This can also be the case at restaurants if rice is exposed to glutinous foods.

Eat your fill of rice and accompanying tasty entrees at Ted's Bakery in Haleiwa, HI. They were voted Hawaii's Best for three years in a row by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. You’ll enjoy a pleasant breakfast, lunch, or dinner on the famous Sunset Beach on the North Shore. Visit their website to see their menus, or call (808) 638-8207 to order carryout.