In most Asian countries, germinated brown rice was incorporated into traditional medicines to treat or cure different types of illnesses. Germinated or sprouted brown rice is also known as GABA rice because it contains an increased amount of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that has a calming effect throughout the nervous system.
Benefits of sprouted brown rice
Improves sleep
Eating sprouted brown rice provides the body with an increased amount of GABA. The availability of GABA in the body allows the body and brain to enter a state of relaxation and deeper sleep. Low quantities of GABA, or lack thereof, have been linked to insomnia, stress, and anxiety.
Reduces stress and anxiety
Being a neurotransmitter, GABA’s main activity is to decrease the activity of neurons in the central nervous system and the brain. It is abundant in sprouted brown rice, which helps you relax and reduces stress and anxiety.
Helps control blood pressure
Sprouted brown rice contains a high amount of fiber, which can help to reduce excess cholesterol in the blood, lowering hypertension and regulating other cardiovascular complications.
Helps manage diabetes
For ages, sprouted brown rice has been believed to regulate the release of glucose and insulin into the bloodstream, which helps manage diabetes. And according to a recent study published by Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, sprouted brown rice is healthier for people with diabetes.
Improves digestion and calcium absorption
Sprouted brown rice has plenty of fiber that should form the bulk of your food. The fiber helps food move smoothly along your digestive tract, which allows easy bowel movement improving general digestive health.
Sprouted brown rice also contains trace nutrients such as manganese, which helps the body absorb calcium, a mineral that is crucial in forming healthy bones.
How to make sprouted brown rice
You can germinate whole-grain brown rice at home without any special equipment. Brown rice is used because white rice cannot germinate since its hull has been removed. You can choose to sprout either long or short whole-grain brown rice.
First, sort out your rice to remove dirt and then wash it with clean water. Place the rice in a bowl, then cover it in lukewarm water. Next, cover the bowl and set it aside in a warm place for about 12 hours.
Drain the rice using a sieve, then thoroughly rinse it with clean cold water. Soak your rice again and repeat the process every 12 hours for about 2-3 days or until the sprouts begin to appear.
Remember, do not let the sprouts become too long because that will affect the taste of your rice.
Next, pat the soaked rice dry and store it in an airtight container. Cook the sprouted rice immediately or store it in the fridge for 2-3 days until you’re ready to cook it.
If you do not wish to sprout your rice at home, you may find ready-sprouted brown rice in stores near you.
Also, germinated brown rice takes less water and time to cook than whole grain un-germinated brown rice, so watch out not to overcook it.
Sprouted brown rice: A new healthy meal
Is sprouted brown rice healthier than regular brown rice? There is no conclusive research comparing the two, but it has a better flavor and texture. Apart from its health benefits, sprouted brown rice may be the best option for people who want to transition from white rice to healthy brown rice because it sits right in the middle in terms of texture.
Enjoy your sprouted brown rice to experience the whole grain goodness of GABA in this magical grain bursting with goodness and health.
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