What Are The Benefits Of Jasmine Rice?

Jasmine rice is a type of white rice that is popular in Thailand but available in many other areas of the world. Jasmine rice has long grains and a light taste that makes it suitable as a side dish to a variety of foods. Although jasmine rice is not a particularly robust source of nutrition, it does offer some nutritional elements that can be beneficial.

Lack of Fat

Jasmine rice can be beneficial because it contains no fat. This characteristic is beneficial if you are trying to lose weight, as fat is the most calorie-dense nutrient, with more than double the calories in carbohydrates and protein. Additionally, certain types of fat -- trans fat and saturated fat -- can have adverse effects on your cardiovascular health.

High in Carbohydrates

Jasmine rice is a rich source of carbohydrates, as each 3/4 cup serving provides 36 g of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are your body's main source of energy, so consuming carbohydrates is particularly important for athletes. In addition to being beneficial prior to exercise, carbohydrates are vital for post-exercise recovery, according to research from the December 2010 edition of "International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism."

Lack of Fiber

Jasmine rice contains no fiber. Although dietary fiber is crucial for your health, there are some instances in which a fiber-free food can be beneficial. One effect of dietary fiber is that it promotes feelings of fullness, so if you are trying to gain weight, jasmine rice's lack of fiber can be beneficial. However, the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences recommends that men eat at least 38 g of fiber daily and that women eat at least 25 g of fiber daily.

Low in Protein

Each 3/4 cup serving of jasmine rice contains 3 g of protein. Like fiber, protein is a nutrient that must be consumed daily for proper health. However, there are also cases in which low-protein foods are preferable, such as in the treatment of liver or kidney problems.

Iron Content

Jasmine rice does not offer a wide variety of vitamins and minerals, but it does provide 8 percent of the daily suggested intake of iron in a 3/4 cup serving. Iron is a vital nutrient that is a structural component to many proteins in your body, such as hemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout your body.