Rice is a delicious and versatile staple in many diets. However, it can be quite high in carbs and cause blood sugar levels to spike. Luckily, there is a simple cooking trick that can transform your rice into a healthier option that is lower in carbs, calories, and even promotes better gut health. Let’s dive into the easy method that you can start using today.
The Simple Trick: Adding Coconut Oil
By adding coconut oil to your rice before cooking, you can change the structure of the starch, making it more resistant to digestion. This method has several benefits, including lowering the amount of digestible carbs and glucose, reducing the calorie content, and promoting gut health by increasing the production of resistant starch, which acts like fiber.
How It Works:
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Add Coconut Oil to Boiling Water
Start by bringing water to a boil and then add 1 teaspoon of coconut oil for every ½ cup of uncooked rice.
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Cook the Rice as Usual
Add the rice to the boiling water and cook it as you normally would.
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Refrigerate the Rice
Once the rice is cooked, let it cool and refrigerate it for at least 12 hours. This cooling process increases the resistant starch, making it harder for your body to digest and absorb the carbs.
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Reheat and Enjoy
When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the rice. The resistant starch will remain intact, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal while consuming fewer carbs and calories.
Benefits of This Method:
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Lower Carbs and Glucose:
By reducing the digestible starch, this method helps your body absorb fewer carbs, which is beneficial for regulating blood sugar levels and managing diabetes effectively. -
Fewer Calories:
Since resistant starch isn’t digested in the small intestine, it contributes fewer calories. This can be helpful for weight management by reducing the overall calorie count of your meal. -
Heals the Gut:
Resistant starch acts like fiber and nourishes the beneficial bacteria in your gut. This promotes healthy digestion, reduces inflammation, and supports overall gut health.
Bonus Tip:
You can apply this same method to other starchy foods like potatoes and pasta, reducing their carb content and improving their health benefits.
By simply adding coconut oil and refrigerating your rice, you can enjoy a healthier, lower-carb meal that supports digestion and helps manage blood sugar levels! Try out this easy trick today and enjoy the many benefits it brings.
