Rice porridge is very popular in northern China, especially among women after childbirth. It is a traditional practice to consume rice porridge with brown sugar for postpartum recovery. Rice porridge is nutritionally rich and is often referred to as the "ginseng soup". So what are the effects and benefits of rice porridge?
Strengthening the Spleen and Stomach
Rice benefits the spleen, stomach, and kidneys, especially rice porridge. Due to its high nutritional value, a layer of rice oil forms on the surface during cooking, which can protect the gastric mucosa and prevent irritation from spicy foods. It is suitable for patients with chronic feeding, gastric ulcers, and other stomach diseases. Fresh rice has an even better effect on strengthening the spleen and stomach.
Promoting Digestion
Rice has the highest content of dietary fiber and B vitamins among all grains. Dietary fiber absorbs water after consumption and promotes the secretion of gastric acid, aiding in the digestion and absorption of food. Additionally, dietary fiber promotes intestinal peristalsis, reduces the time food stays in the intestines, and facilitates bowel movements.
Nourishing Yin
Rice has the function of nourishing Yin because it contains substances similar to estrogen. Therefore, it is a traditional practice in northern China to consume rice porridge with brown sugar for postpartum recovery, helping women regain their strength. Rice also contains a large amount of amino acids, which can prevent miscarriage and have strong antibacterial effects, providing preventive and therapeutic effects for female diseases such as vaginitis.
Blood Enrichment
Rice contains a large amount of iron, making it an excellent source of iron-rich food. Consuming rice porridge can replenish iron levels in the body to a certain extent, promote the synthesis of hemoglobin, and stimulate blood production, preventing and treating iron-deficiency anemia.
Promoting Sleep
Rice porridge contains a large amount of amino acids, with tryptophan being the highest among all grains. Tryptophan has the ability to regulate sleep. Consuming rice porridge can help individuals fall asleep peacefully and ensure the quality of sleep.
Improving Vision
Rice porridge contains a high amount of vitamin A, which is not found in many other grains. This vitamin promotes the synthesis of rhodopsin in the eyes, enhances the adaptability of the eyes in dim light, and has a beneficial effect on vision.
Precautions for Consuming Rice Porridge
Although rice contains a considerable amount of protein, the amino acid composition is not very comprehensive. It has a low content of lysine but a high content of methionine. Therefore, whether it is postpartum women or the elderly, rice porridge should not be considered as a staple food. It should be consumed in moderation and paired with other foods to avoid nutritional deficiencies.
