If you are trying to lose weight or live a healthy lifestyle, one of your health-conscious friends may have suggested that you try eating brown rice.

Usually, your friend will tell you that he has been eating this staple for quite a long time. He might even spend time in explaining the benefits that you will get from eating this wonder rice.

Well, it is true that brown rice can help you lose weight because it contains manganese, fiber, and selenium that fend off antioxidants and improve digestive health.

But just like any food, too much of it can be bad for you. If a friend tells you to eat brown rice, take his advice with a grain of salt. Do your research first and check if this staple is right for your diet.

To help you get started, check out the possible health risks of brown rice below.

It contains arsenic.

Brown rice, when manufactured, contains trace amounts of arsenic. Being exposed to this element for numerous times will lead to adverse side effects. This includes cancer of the kidney and lungs, as well as hyperkeratosis and skin lesions.

Most brown rice brands contain arsenic that is 50 percent more than the recommended safe serving. That is why you should be careful with the brown rice that you buy.

There is the danger of cross-contamination.

Before you add a pack of brown rice to your shopping cart, do not forget to read its label first to avoid experiencing any food allergies.

A lot of manufacturers create different kinds of products using this grain. This includes flour, bread, or snacks. To save up on production costs, brands tend to use the same equipment for making every product, which can, therefore, lead to cross-contamination. This will increase the chances of rice becoming contaminated with dangerous allergens.

It contains phytic acid.

Aside from dangerous arsenic, other health risks of brown rice include the grain’s phytic acid content. This is an insoluble compound that prevents vital nutrients from being absorbed by the body. It also prevents the minerals from working properly.

It is bad for pregnant women.

Since brown rice contains arsenic, this means that pregnant women should stay away from it. This is to avoid any mishaps and keep the baby safe.

It can be bad for the heart.

Several studies have noted that brown rice should not be consumed by people with heart disease because of its arsenic content.

It makes it difficult for you to digest food.

Eating too much brown rice can damage your digestive system. That is because the phytic acid in the grains prevents essential vitamins and minerals from being absorbed by the gut.

Are there any alternatives to brown rice?

People need to consume at least 30 grams of dietary fiber every day to have a good digestive system and keep your blood sugar regulated.

If you are planning to remove brown rice from your diet, you can try other types of food such as oats, bulgur, quinoa, buckwheat, or barley. These foods are rich in fiber and are easy to cook.

Avoid the health risks of eating brown rice by doing your research and eating better and healthier alternatives!

Source:
courtesy of NATURALNEWS

by Amy Goodrich

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