Importance of Chakhao and its health benefits
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S Roma Devi, Lydia Zimik and Laishram Kanta Singh
Contd from previous issue
Today, Chakhao is not only consumed in its traditional form but is also being used to make innovative products like Chakhao kheer, rice cakes, and snacks.
Unique Characteristics of Chakhao Brown Rice
What sets Chakhao brown rice apart from other varieties is its unique appearance and nutritional composition. The rice grains are dark purple to black, a color derived from anthocyanins, a type of flavonoid with powerful antioxidant properties. These compounds give the rice its deep hue and offer numerous health benefits. The anthocyanins present in Chakhao rice are comparable to those found in blueberries and blackberries, making it a rich source of antioxidants.Chakhao rice is also known for its nutty flavour and slightly sticky texture when cooked. This sticky nature makes it perfect for traditional Manipuri dishes. Unlike polished white rice, Chakhao brown rice retains its bran and germ layers, which are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This makes it a more wholesome and nutritious option compared to other types of rice.
Nutritional Benefits
Chakhao brown rice is a nutritional powerhouse. It is packed with essential nutrients that contribute to overall health and well-being. Here are some of the key nutritional benefits of Chakhao brown rice:
1. Rich in Antioxidants
The high anthocyanin content in Chakhao rice makes it a powerful antioxidant food. Antioxidants help in neutralizing free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress, and lowering the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. Regular consumption of antioxidant-rich foods like Chakhao rice can help in maintaining a healthy body.
2. High Fiber Content
As a whole grain, Chakhao brown rice is rich in dietary fibre. Fiber is essential for healthy digestion as it helps in regulating bowel movements and preventing constipation. It also plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and controlling blood sugar levels. The high fibre content in Chakhao rice makes it an excellent choice for individuals looking to manage their weight and improve digestive health.
3. Low Glycemic Index:
Chakhao brown rice has a low glycemic index (GI), which means it releases glucose into the bloodstream at a slower rate compared to high-GI foods. This property is particularly beneficial for people with diabetes as it helps in maintaining stable blood sugar levels. The slow release of glucose also helps in sustaining energy levels for a longer period, making Chakhao rice a great option for a balanced diet.
4. Rich in Essential Nutrients
Chakhao rice is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, magnesium, and B vitamins. Iron is crucial for the production of hemoglobin and the prevention of anemia, while zinc supports immune function and wound healing. Magnesium is vital for muscle function, and B vitamins play a key role in energy metabolism. Including Chakhao brown rice in the diet can help in meeting the body’s nutritional requirements.
5. Gluten-Free:
Chakhao rice is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and nutritious option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Its nutrient-dense profile provides a healthy alternative to other gluten-containing grains.
6. Promotes Heart Health:
The combination of fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients in Chakhao brown rice contributes to heart health. Regular consumption of this rice can help in reducing bad cholesterol levels, lowering blood pressure, and preventing the buildup of plaque in the arteries. This, in turn, reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke.
7. Supports Weight Management:
The high fiber content in Chakhao brown rice promotes satiety, reducing the likelihood of overeating.
(To be contd)
Contd from previous issue
Today, Chakhao is not only consumed in its traditional form but is also being used to make innovative products like Chakhao kheer, rice cakes, and snacks.
Unique Characteristics of Chakhao Brown Rice
What sets Chakhao brown rice apart from other varieties is its unique appearance and nutritional composition. The rice grains are dark purple to black, a color derived from anthocyanins, a type of flavonoid with powerful antioxidant properties. These compounds give the rice its deep hue and offer numerous health benefits. The anthocyanins present in Chakhao rice are comparable to those found in blueberries and blackberries, making it a rich source of antioxidants.Chakhao rice is also known for its nutty flavour and slightly sticky texture when cooked. This sticky nature makes it perfect for traditional Manipuri dishes. Unlike polished white rice, Chakhao brown rice retains its bran and germ layers, which are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This makes it a more wholesome and nutritious option compared to other types of rice.
Nutritional Benefits
Chakhao brown rice is a nutritional powerhouse. It is packed with essential nutrients that contribute to overall health and well-being. Here are some of the key nutritional benefits of Chakhao brown rice:
1. Rich in Antioxidants
The high anthocyanin content in Chakhao rice makes it a powerful antioxidant food. Antioxidants help in neutralizing free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress, and lowering the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. Regular consumption of antioxidant-rich foods like Chakhao rice can help in maintaining a healthy body.
2. High Fiber Content
As a whole grain, Chakhao brown rice is rich in dietary fibre. Fiber is essential for healthy digestion as it helps in regulating bowel movements and preventing constipation. It also plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and controlling blood sugar levels. The high fibre content in Chakhao rice makes it an excellent choice for individuals looking to manage their weight and improve digestive health.
3. Low Glycemic Index:
Chakhao brown rice has a low glycemic index (GI), which means it releases glucose into the bloodstream at a slower rate compared to high-GI foods. This property is particularly beneficial for people with diabetes as it helps in maintaining stable blood sugar levels. The slow release of glucose also helps in sustaining energy levels for a longer period, making Chakhao rice a great option for a balanced diet.
4. Rich in Essential Nutrients
Chakhao rice is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, magnesium, and B vitamins. Iron is crucial for the production of hemoglobin and the prevention of anemia, while zinc supports immune function and wound healing. Magnesium is vital for muscle function, and B vitamins play a key role in energy metabolism. Including Chakhao brown rice in the diet can help in meeting the body’s nutritional requirements.
5. Gluten-Free:
Chakhao rice is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and nutritious option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Its nutrient-dense profile provides a healthy alternative to other gluten-containing grains.
6. Promotes Heart Health:
The combination of fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients in Chakhao brown rice contributes to heart health. Regular consumption of this rice can help in reducing bad cholesterol levels, lowering blood pressure, and preventing the buildup of plaque in the arteries. This, in turn, reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke.
7. Supports Weight Management:
The high fiber content in Chakhao brown rice promotes satiety, reducing the likelihood of overeating.
(To be contd)