If you’ve changed your diet to include whole grains and minimize “white carbohydrates,” such as white bread and white rice, you should know there is one more thing you can do to make your carbo intake healthier – and this is especially important if you have diabetes.
Soaking your grains makes them healthier
Research published in the journal Nutrition & Metabolism suggests that soaking brown rice overnight before cooking it can revitalize compounds that help rice seed grow. These compounds are particularly beneficial for people with diabetes.
Experts say that soaking helps germinate brown rice and that the compounds released can significantly reduce the nerve and vascular damage associated with diabetes.
In addition, new research published online in the Journal of Lipid Research shows that germinated brown rice helps normalize blood sugar and enzymes that are out of balance due to diabetes.
Research shows that, unlike white rice, brown rice still contains some of the germ or growth structure that actually resumes activity after soaking in water for 24 hours. This revitalization is helpful in normalizing metabolism when consumed.
Other benefits of pre-germinated brown rice
Experts say a regular diet of pre-germinated brown rice can increase levels of the neurotransmitter GABA, which is believed play a role in lowering blood pressure, improving cognition and lowering blood glucose levels.
Pre-germinated brown rice also provides more vitamins and minerals than unsoaked brown rice or white rice. And keep in mind that the fiber in brown rice, soaked or not, contributes to a healthy diet.
If you aren’t a big fan of brown rice or you don’t want to take the time to soak it overnight, stay tuned for supplements with the compounds that make pre-germinated brown rice good for you.
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