How Do Brown Rice and White Rice Compare?

Medically reviewed by Lindsey DeSoto, RD

Rice, rich in vitamins and minerals, is a staple food for many populations and cultures. It can be enjoyed on its own or as an ingredient in various cuisines. Over 100,000 rice varieties are grown in over 100 countries worldwide, but 90% of rice's global production originates in Asia.

Rice varieties differ in quality and nutrition, but after post-harvest processing, they're usually categorized as white or brown rice. Brown rice is often considered healthier because it undergoes less processing, but white rice is more widely consumed. So, in the brown brown rice vs white rice debate, which one comes out on top?

How Do Brown and White Rice Differ?

All types of rice are carbohydrate-dense foods that contain small amounts of protein and minimal fat. However, brown rice is a whole grain, meaning it contains all parts of the grain, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. It retains more nutrients, like fiber and vitamins, but takes longer to cook and has a chewier texture than white rice.

White rice is a refined grain, meaning it undergoes more processing that removes the bran and germ. Removing the fibrous exterior of the grain also removes some of its nutrients, but without the bran and germ, white rice tends to cook quicker and has a softer texture.

Nutrition Facts of White Rice and Brown Rice

There are the nutritional facts of a one-half-cup serving of cooked unenriched, white rice, and a one-half-cup serving of brown rice.

All white rice begins as brown rice, but as it undergoes processing, its nutrient profile changes. The milling process removes the rice's husk, bran, and germ and some of the fiber, vitamins, and minerals with it. Many white rice products are fortified with nutrients after the fact, but it depends on the manufacturer.

Brown rice contains slightly more fiber, protein, and fat. It also boasts a more nutrient-dense vitamin and mineral profile. For example, brown rice is an excellent source of manganese, an essential trace mineral that is a crucial cofactor in many enzymatic reactions. It's involved in amino acid, cholesterol, glucose, and carbohydrate metabolism.

Brown rice is also rich in phosphorous, magnesium, and vitamin B6, and it contains more iron, zinc, niacin, and thiamine than white rice.

Of course, food choices involve more than just reviewing the nutrition facts. Food is nourishment, but it's also cultural and social. So, it's essential to review the benefits of brown and white rice to choose the grain that best meets your needs.

Benefits of White and Brown Rice

Brown rice is nutrient-dense and has been linked to several health benefits, which may give it an advantage over white rice for some. According to research, eating brown rice may improve blood glucose control, heart health, and weight management efforts.

For example, recent studies show that consuming whole grains, like brown rice, is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. Brown rice contains more fiber, preventing a blood sugar spike commonly seen with refined carbs, and it's also a good source of magnesium, which helps reduce insulin resistance and improve glycemic control in those with type 2 diabetes.

Eating brown rice may also support heart health, as research shows that higher consumption of whole grains is associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease. Furthermore, scientists have also discovered that brown rice can support weight loss efforts. Compared to white rice, brown rice can help reduce body weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference.

White rice, on the other hand, may be easier to digest. Those prone to heartburn or on a low-fiber diet may prefer the digestibility of white rice. Furthermore, white rice usually has lower arsenic levels than brown rice. Arsenic can be toxic to overall health, so the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates arsenic levels in foods. Arsenic is primarily found in the outer layers of whole-grain rice, which are removed during the milling process to make white rice.

Potential Drawbacks

Rice is generally considered safe for the average healthy adult. However, there are a few considerations when incorporating rice into a well-balanced diet:

• Arsenic is a naturally occurring element in soil and water, and rice grains may absorb it during cultivation. Chronic arsenic exposure has been linked to certain cancers, and brown rice can contain higher levels of arsenic than other grains.

• Other grain options contain more protein per serving. For example, one-half cup of quinoa contains 4.07 g.

• All types of rice are carbohydrate-dense, meaning they will increase your blood sugar after consumption. However, white rice has a higher glycemic index (GI) than brown rice and will cause a more rapid increase in your blood glucose.
  

Related: Are There Any Real Health Benefits to Washing Your Rice Before Cooking It?

Which Is Better for Health?

Health and wellness are highly individualized, so there are several factors to consider when deciding between white and brown rice. While brown rice contains more vitamins and minerals than white rice, it's not always the better option.

For example, its higher phosphorus content may not be safe for those with a history of kidney failure or renal disease. That said, moderate amounts of brown rice should not pose significant health risks. Phosphorus in foods is not absorbed by the body as much as previously thought.

Those who need to increase their fiber intake may appreciate the higher fiber content of brown rice. A one-half-cup serving of brown rice provides approximately one more gram of fiber than the same serving of white rice. Higher fiber intake has been linked to an improved gut microbiome, which supports cardiovascular health, insulin sensitivity, and gut motility.

Still, white rice can be included mindfully in a well-balanced diet. Many cultures highlight white rice in their traditional culinary dishes. Nutrition involves more than fueling your body. It's also social and cultural, and embracing traditions can provide stability and connect you to your roots. A registered dietitian nutritionist can help you navigate the many factors that may influence the best rice for your health—physical and mental.

Tips for Consuming Rice

Whether you opt for brown or white rice, consider these tips for incorporating rice into your diet:

1. Proper cooking techniques: Use a ratio of 2 cups of water for every 1 cup of rice, and cook it in a rice cooker, pressure cooker, or on the stove until tender.

2. Pair with a lean protein: Balance your rice dish with a lean protein source and fresh vegetables to create a nutritious, well-balanced meal. Rice pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, beans, and red meat.

3. Be mindful of portion sizes: Rice is a carb-dense food, and eating too much in one sitting may spike blood sugar levels. Controlling portion sizes also helps manage overall calorie intake.

4. Experiment with seasonings: Rice is like a blank canvas. Be adventurous with your flavorings, and try seasoning rice with different herbs and spices instead of salt to enhance your meals.

5. Include healthy fats: Rice dishes are a great opportunity to incorporate healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, and nuts into your diet. These fat sources add flavor and help promote satiety at mealtimes.

6. Seek professional guidance: A registered dietitian (RD) can provide nutrition recommendations regarding individualized carbohydrate needs and ways to incorporate rice into a well-balanced diet.
   

A Quick Review

Both brown and white rice varieties are carbohydrate-dense foods, but they undergo different milling processes, resulting in different nutrition profiles. Brown rice is a whole grain, while white rice is considered a refined grain. Many people prefer brown rice since it is higher in fiber and various vitamins and minerals, but white rice tends to be more widely consumed worldwide.

It's easy to overthink the brown rice vs. white rice decision, but their macronutrient ratios are extremely similar, so don't stress too much. When considering your diet as a whole, the differences in brown and white rice micronutrients are minuscule. Those who choose to eat white rice may need to get certain nutrients from other foods, which is completely plausible.

Honor your health goals, taste preferences, and cultural traditions to choose the right rice for you.

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