We Nigerians have welcomed Rice into our diet with open arms. We feast on it repeatedly and most times we eat it more than 3 times in a week (especially if it is jollof rice!). Rice has become a major food group in Nigeria, it is serverved at most events, and sold at almost every restaurant.
The allure of rice is that it is easy to prepare and consume, and it can be eaten with different kinds of soups and stews. But what most people don’t realise is that white rice contains a high amount of carbohydrate and is rich in calories. Also high consumption of white rice has been associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes because rice is rapidly broken down into sugar in our body.
See also “Best Dried Fruits For Healthy and Glowing Skin“
For all the team #FitFam and all those looking to cut down on their carbohydrate and sugar intake, here are 5 alternatives to rice:
Local Rice – Ofada rice, abakaliki rice, and other locally grown rice are a more healthier substitute to white rice. They are rich in fiber, hence they digest easily and do not stay in the body.
Bulgur Wheat: This looks a lot like rice and it is rich in fiber. It also contains Low-fat protein which will help your body stay in shape.
Couscous: This is made out of tiny semolina grains. It is a good source of plant based protein and it helps to boost your immune system.
Brown Rice: This is a healthier option because it hasn’t been stripped of its bran and germ layer. It gives your fiber and minerals for the same amount of carbs in white rice.
Cauliflower Rice: Grated cauliflower is a great alternative to rice. It contains more fiberd than rice and has up to 9 times less carbohydrates than rice.
These alternatives should help you cut down on your rice intake, so you can stay healthy.
Do you know of any other rice alternatives, let us know in the comment section…
