White rice comes from the seeds of the rice plant. These seeds are processed via a huller to remove the outer grain husk. This results in brown rice. Further processing involving removal of the inner husk, or bran, and then polishing with glucose or talc results in which rice. Because the processing removes many of the nutrients that are naturally occurring in rice, white rice is fortified with vitamins and minerals including niacin, folate, thamin, manganese and iron. White rice is available in long, medium or short grain varieties.
Protein, Fat and Carbohydrate Content
One cup of cooked, long grain enriched white rice contains 205 calories, 4 grams protein, zero grams fat and 44 grams carbohydrate. Because white rice is high in carbohydrates, it is an excellent source of energy for the body's activities.
Niacin
White rice is a good source of niacin. Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is important in the production of energy in the body. It aids in the production of cholesterol in the liver, regulates the production of DNA, the genetic material found in cells, and plays a key role in the regulation of insulin metabolism and blood sugar. A one-cup serving of white rice contains 12 percent of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for niacin.
Folate
Folate is essential vitamin found in white rice. Folate is key in the healthy formation of red blood cells and in maintaining proper blood circulation. Research suggests that diets rich in folate decrease the risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's disease. Folate also plays an important role in cell production, the development of the central nervous system and in preventing neural tube defects in unborn children. A one-cup serving of white rice contains 23 percent of the RDA for folate.
Thiamin
Thiamin, also known as B1, is important in the production of energy and the protective myelin sheath that envelopes nerves throughout the body. Thiamin aids in the function of neurotransmitters--chemicals which transport messages between nerves and muscles. A one-cup serving of white rice contains 17 percent of the RDA for thiamin.
Manganese
Manganese is a trace mineral found in white rice that plays a key role in the body as an enzyme activator and a catalyst in a variety of enzyme functions including the metabolism of proteins and carbohydrates, the production of hormones and the formation of bone. A one-cup serving of white rice provides 37 percent of the RDA for manganese.
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