What are the benefits and effects of drinking rice water

Rice water contains various nutrients, and moderate consumption can help replenish energy, promote digestion, and improve skin condition. The main functions of rice water include providing carbohydrates, relieving gastrointestinal discomfort, assisting in regulating blood sugar, supplementing B vitamins, and helping maintain skin health.

1. Provide carbohydrates

Rice water contains abundant starch carbohydrates, which can quickly provide energy to the human body. During the cooking process, some starch dissolves in water, forming easily absorbable sugars that are suitable for drinking after exercise or when experiencing low blood sugar. Brown rice water retains more dietary fiber and increases sugar at a slower rate than refined white rice water.

2. Relieve gastrointestinal discomfort

Rice water has mild properties, and its starch dextrin can cover the gastrointestinal mucosa, reducing gastric acid irritation. For patients with diarrhea or gastritis, drinking warm diluted rice water can help replenish water and electrolytes. Fermented rice water contains probiotics, which help improve the balance of gut microbiota.

3. Assist in regulating blood sugar

Cooling rice water will produce resistant starch, which is not easily absorbed by the small intestine and helps stabilize postprandial blood sugar. Patients with diabetes can choose brown rice water with dietary fiber intake, but the total amount should be controlled to avoid excessive carbohydrate.

4. Supplementing with B vitamins

Rice water dissolves nutrients such as vitamin B1 and B3 on the surface of rice grains, which has a positive effect on maintaining nervous system function and energy metabolism. Rice water made using soaking or fermentation processes will significantly increase its vitamin content, making it suitable for vegetarians to supplement.

5. Maintain skin health

The amino acids and antioxidants in rice water can help soothe skin inflammation, and topical application can relieve sunburn or eczema. The phenolic substances such as ferulic acid contained in it have the effect of inhibiting melanin precipitation, and long-term consumption may improve the problem of dark skin tone.

It is recommended to choose rice grown organically to make rice water and avoid pesticide residues. When cooking rice water, the ratio of rice to water should be 1:8, and the second layer of rice water is more nutritious. People with gastrointestinal weakness should drink warm rice water, and patients with diabetes need to monitor their blood glucose response. Rice water can be used as a supplement to daily drinks, but it cannot replace medication for treating diseases. People with special physical conditions should consult a physician before drinking. Combining a balanced diet and a regular schedule can better leverage the health benefits of rice and water.