DavidWolfe.comYou might be surprised to learn about the health benefits that wild rice has to offer. It provides the body with fiber, folate, zinc, phosphorus, iron, potassium and magnesium, along with other essential vitamins and nutrients. It’s also higher in protein than most whole grains. Like black rice, wild rice is also diet-friendly. It works to naturally boost the metabolism to support weight loss and provide the body with the energy needed for physical activity like exercise. Wild rice is also gluten-free, which makes it a healthy option for those who struggle with a gluten intolerance or a gluten allergy.
Benefits of Wild Rice
1. Protects the Body From Disease
Benefits of wild rice include the ability to protect the body from disease. Wild rice is packed with antioxidants and phytonutrients that help prevent heart disease, stroke and even cancer According to a study published in Food Chemistry, the antioxidant activity of wild rice was found to be up to ten times greater than the antioxidant activity of white rice. (1)
2. May Help Reduce Birth Defects
Benefits of wild rice include the ability to prevent birth defects. Wild rice provides the body with a healthy dose of B vitamins, including folate. Folate plays a vital role in cell growth and division. It’s especially important for pregnant women, to help prevent birth defects of the brain and spinal cord. Benefits of wild rice include the ability to prevent a folate deficiency, which can lead to anemia, cardiovascular disease, stroke and other serious conditions.
3. Strengthens Bones
Benefits of wild rice include the ability to strengthen the bones. Wild rice contains phosphorous, which can help improve bone strength and reduce the risk of fractures. Research has shown that foods rich in phosphorus, like wild rice, play an important role in improving overall bone mass and bone health. (2)
4. Boosts Energy Levels
Benefits of wild rice include the ability to naturally boost energy levels. Wild rice contains magnesium, which helps the body create energy by activating ATP. By activating ATP, benefits of wild rice include the ability to prevent fatigue and ensure that the cells are getting enough oxygen. Adding wild rice to your diet can help increase oxygen during exercise to prevent exhaustion. (3)
5. Is Gluten-Free
Benefits of wild rice include the ability to provide the body with gluten-free nutrients. Gluten can be hard to digest and lead to intestinal distress for many people. Other gluten-free grains, like brown rice, oats, quinoa and corn are often heavily processed. Benefits of wild rice include the ability to act as a substitute for processed grains, especially for those who suffer from a gluten allergy or a gluten intolerance. When trying to avoid gluten, make sure you read your labels carefully. Choose products that are organic, unprocessed and 100% gluten free.