Billions of people around the world consume rice as a staple food, often at the heart of traditional diets. While it's usually perceived as a healthy and filling meal, one would ask: Is there a right time to consume rice for optimal health? The answer would be different based on metabolism, dietary aims, and lifestyle choices.
In an exclusive interaction with us, our expert, Pooja Singh, Dietician at ShardaCare, Health City - Noida, explained how the timing of rice consumption would affect your health. Here is everything she shared with us.
The Case for Eating Rice in the Morning or Afternoon
According to expert Pooja, people who lead active lifestyles may be better off eating rice during the morning or afternoon. Here's why:
1. Better Energy Utilisation
Rice is a high-carbohydrate food that gives one quick energy. It can, therefore, be eaten during the morning or lunch hour, ensuring that the body utilises the energy effectively and prevents sluggishness.
Also Read: Nora Fatehi Reveals Her Workout Secrets For Staying In Shape At 32
2. Helps in Digestion
The metabolism of the body is more on a daily basis. Therefore, carbohydrates get digested and dealt with better. This sets the chances of fat storage to its lowest.
3. Avoids Nighttime Cravings for Snacks
A perfectly balanced rice meal in the morning can help satisfy hunger and stop such midnight snacking.
Is It Okay to Eat Rice at Night?
“The notion that rice should be avoided at night is based on the fear of weight gain and slow metabolism. However, eating rice in moderation at night isn't bad in itself,” Pooja explained. Here's what to consider:
1. Portion Control Matters
Overeating rice at night, especially refined white rice, can lead to excess calorie intake. A controlled portion, paired with proteins and fibre-rich vegetables, can make for a balanced meal.
2. Choose the Right Type of Rice
Opt for whole grains like brown rice, red rice, or quinoa, which have a lower glycemic index and promote steady blood sugar levels.
Also Read: Mental Health Matters: The Impact Of Mockery And Trends On Self-Esteem Of Girls
3. Consider Your Activity Levels
If you have a sedentary lifestyle or eat rice right before bed, the excess carbohydrates may not be fully utilised and could contribute to weight gain.
Rice Consumption and Fitness Goals
- If trying to reduce weight, it's better to have the rice in advance because excessive calories are stored overnight.
- Athletes and individuals want to gain muscle. Having rice after a workout can replenish the glycogen stores.
- Balanced portions of rice at any time of the day, along with lean protein, vegetables, and healthy fats, are indicative of eating well.
Bottomline
There is nothing strict in respect to the requirement of eating the rice. As long as there is a proper association between your health goals and lifestyle, it can be said that timing needs to be more about your level of activity. Still, a higher portion of well-balanced rice during dinner won't disturb your health completely. It rather depends on equilibrium, portion control, and adding nutrient-dense foods to a meal that contains rice and contributes to holistic well-being.