It’s all about Eating Right

Healthy eating is all about consuming the six Food Groups according to the Food Pyramid, namely eating mostly Grain Foods, more Fruits and Vegetables, moderate Protein products and less Oil, Salt and Sugar.

Grain Foods are rich in carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for the body; our brain and body cells depended on adequate amount of them to maintain normal functions. Daily consumption of carbohydrates is essential and should consist of not less than 50% of your diet.

Not all Grain Foods are healthy; croissants, instant noodles and some other noodles have high fat content. Frequent intake of high fat and high sodium foods contribute to a higher chance of chronic diseases.

Rice, a typical Grain Food, contains a low amount of fat and sodium. A healthier choice is rice grown without chemicals or pesticides.

Karman Lau , Registered Dietitian

Brown Rice : Your Healthy Choice

Dietary Fiber is the indigestible portion of plant foods which can be found in grain foods, fruit, vegetables, beans and nuts. Dietary Fiber benefits health by stabilizing blood glucose, lowering cholesterol level and decreasing the risk of cardiac diseases. It also helps in relieving constipation and prevents colon cancer.

As compared to white rice, Brown Rice has higher dietary fiber and Vitamin B complex concentration due to its unpolished processing method. Vitamin B complex is known to help in relieving stress, increasing vitality and improving energy level. 

The myth that rice elevates blood glucose sharply and hence diabetics should avoid its consumption should be corrected. By following the healthy eating recommendations of the Food Pyramid consuming a moderate amount of grains (such as rice which is low fat and healthy) with high fiber foods such as vegetables or low Glycemic Index (GI) choices such as Brown Rice, a diabetic can also enjoy rice like anyone else does.

Karman Lau , Registered Dietitian