Did you know that a famous variety of rice from Kerala, called Palakkadan Matta rice or Rosematta, is not just a tasty treat but packed with health benefits too? Let’s break it down.
This unique, fluffy red-tinted rice grows best in the damp, black cotton soil prevalent in Palakkad. Its special flavor and texture make it a local favorite, and it’s an essential part of Sadya, a traditional vegetarian feast in Kerala. But, there’s something more that makes this rice awesome: its nutritional value is through the roof!
Eating Matta rice is one good way to nourish your body. The outer layer of a rice grain (called the pericarp) is rich in nutrients. Most polished, shiny, and clean looking rice varieties lose this beneficial outer cover, but not Matta rice. Its pericarp is red and stays put, acting as a nutrient power pack for your body.
Did you know it’s also stocked with magnesium? This mighty mineral performs numerous crucial functions in our bodies, including helping nerve signals and shielding us from heart disease and osteoporosis. Eating half a cup of Matta rice offers around 42g of magnesium, making it a gem for our health.
Plus, it’s a smart choice to fight off Type 2 Diabetes. Matta rice assists in managing blood sugar levels effectively by improving insulin sensitivity and enhancing proper sugar absorption in our bodies.
Feeding your body with the adequate fiber it needs? Matta rice makes it a cakewalk. It’s fiber-rich, aiding smooth digestion and ensuring that your systems are functioning at their best.
This Kerala red rice also comes packed with calcium, sending your daily dose of this essential nutrient soaring. Calcium does so much for us – from fostering kids’ growth to maintaining our muscle function, bone health, and keeping our teeth robust.
It also helps tame high blood pressure, thanks to its high-fiber content and low glycemic index. Eating Matta rice keeps you feeling satisfied sooner and longer, helping you curb overeating and, in turn, manage high blood pressure.
Rnd what’s better than adding extra vitamins to your diet? Matta rice’s nutrient-rich shell is a source of Vitamin A and some types of Vitamin B, which are key to maintain our overall health.
The good news doesn’t stop there. Par-boiling this rice retains all these nutrients, meaning your meal isn’t just about filling up on carbs but taking in the richness of this grain as well. What’s more, its high fiber content aids in managing diabetes by slowing down carbohydrate absorption, preventing that post-meal blood sugar surge.
Summing it up, while Matta rice adds zing to your dishes, it also brings with it a slew of health benefits. So it’s not just about the taste, it’s about good health too. Let’s embrace more of it in our meals!
