Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. By eating healthy foods, you greatly reduce your risk of heart disease and death. Rice crackers are heart-healthy if they are low-fat and made with whole grains. Choose low-calorie, low-sodium rice crackers cooked with vegetable oil, brown rice and seeds.
Whole Grains
Eat whole-grain rice crackers to reduce your risk of heart disease. According to the USDA, you should eat three 1-oz. servings of whole grains per day. Avoid rice crackers with added sugars such as sucrose, glucose, high-fructose corn syrup, corn syrup, maple syrup or fructose. Choose crackers with brown rice, nuts and seeds to get more fiber.
Fats
Purchase rice crackers which are low in saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol. Products made with vegetable oils instead of animal products are good sources of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. By eating less saturated fat and cholesterol, you reduce your risk of heart disease.
Calories
Balancing calorie intake is another key to reducing the risk of heart disease. Look for rice crackers that are low in calories. When you eat rice crackers at home, measure out your portions beforehand so that you do not overeat. Avoid sitting in front of the TV with a package of rice crackers.
Home Cooking
Cook rice crackers at home with brown rice, brown rice flour, seeds, water and vegetable oil. Bake rice crackers for 20 to 25 minutes in the oven, or until crisp and brown. Try out a variety of brown rice cracker recipes, seasonings and ingredients.
