Some evidence suggests that eating white rice is bad for cholesterol levels. However, choosing whole grain varieties adds more fiber and nutrients to the diet and may help someone manage their cholesterol.
Rice is a food staple globally, with the average American consuming 27 pounds annually. However, there is conflicting evidence on the health effects of rice and if eating it can contribute to high cholesterol.
This article discusses the nutrient composition of rice and which types are most suitable for someone who needs to control their cholesterol levels. In addition, it gives advice on how much rice to eat and nutritious alternatives to include in everyday meals.
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Although rice does not contain cholesterol, it can affect the body in a way that may raise someone’s cholesterol levels or triglycerides.
In addition, there are several factors to consider to determine if rice can cause an individual to develop high cholesterol. These include:
- the type of rice someone eats
- how often they eat it
- portion size
- what they eat with it
- if they have risk factors for high cholesterol such as having obesity, being inactive, or eating a diet that is not nutritious
Types of rice
The type of rice a person eats may determine if they risk raising their cholesterol. There are two types of rice grains — refined grains and unrefined grains.
Food producers make refined grains by removing the husk, bran, and germ of the grain, leaving them devoid of nutrients such as B vitamins and fiber.
White rice classifies as a refined grain, although manufacturers in the United States often enrich it with nutrients. However, it still lacks fiber.
In contrast, unrefined or whole grains, contain all the natural nutrients that the plant began with, including fiber, minerals, and vitamins. Unrefined rice includes:
- brown rice
- wild rice
- red rice
- purple rice
- black rice
White vs. brown rice nutrition
According to the
Fiber | 1.74 grams (g) | 3.23 g |
---|---|---|
Folate | 1.74 micrograms (mcg) | 18.2 mcg |
Choline | 3.65 mg | 18.6 mg |
Niacin | 0.505 mg | 5.17 mg |
Protein | 3.52 g | 5.54 g |
Current research suggests that eating unrefined grains is better for overall health and managing cholesterol.
For example, a
In addition, a
Additionally, excess sugar in the blood can also lead to high triglyceride levels, which can cause high cholesterol. The above study suggests that excess rice consumption can cause spikes in blood sugar levels.
The
Dietary fiber from whole foods, such as brown rice, can lower total and LDL cholesterol and complement statin therapy to prevent heart disease, according to a
This research reflects the
The USDA recommends that adults consume 6–10 ounces (oz) of grains per day, depending on their age and sex. This amount includes rice and other grains such as bread, oatmeal, and buckwheat.
In addition, the USDA advises that half of the grains people eat should consist of whole grains. A 1-oz serving is equivalent to half a cup of cooked rice.
However, a person can help maintain a moderate weight and manage their cholesterol by eating fewer grains.
They can seek advice from a dietitian or health professional about how much they should eat.
Additionally, the
While eating white rice can provide added nutrients, such as B vitamins, people should generally limit refined grains to no more than half their daily intake. Therefore, someone can choose the following nutritious alternatives in place of white rice depending on the meal or recipe they are making:
- brown rice
- red rice
- black rice
- wild rice
- quinoa
- whole grain couscous
- buckwheat
- barley
- cauliflower rice or parsnip rice, which a person can make by grating or preparing the vegetable in a food processor
- millet
- amaranth
- bulgur
- whole grain cornmeal
Some evidence suggests eating refined grains, such as white rice, may contribute to a person developing high cholesterol levels. Therefore, advisory bodies recommend that people consume at least half their daily allowance of grains in their whole, unrefined form.
Therefore, to manage cholesterol, someone can choose whole-grain types of rice to eat in moderate quantities suitable for their health goals and weight. Additionally, more nutritious alternatives to white rice include cauliflower rice, quinoa, and bulgur.
If someone needs advice about reducing their cholesterol levels, they can speak with a doctor or dietitian.