If rice is full of good nutrients, the same is true for the cooking water. Endowed with digestive, energetic and health-promoting properties, this water, too often wasted, offers numerous benefits for digestive health and metabolism.
Facilitate digestion
Cooking water – chickpeas, pasta or even potatoes – is very useful and it is always a shame to do without it. In the case of rice, the cooking water is a real home remedy to relieve stomach aches and improve digestion. Like rice itself, cooking water is rich in fiber and starch, which makes it a preferred drink to combat digestive disorders and restore the balance of our intestinal flora. To use rice water for digestive purposes, it is best consumed warm or at room temperature. You can drink it as is or flavor it with mild spices like cinnamon or ginger to improve its taste. In case of significant intestinal disorders, a glass of rice water per day will reduce digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas and cramps. The astringent properties of rice make its cooking water a very effective remedy against diarrhea.
An energy drink
Consumed for breakfast, rice water is also an energy boost to start the day. Vitamins and minerals, such as iron, magnesium and zinc in water help support the metabolic process and provide energy, while carbohydrates are a quick source of fuel for the body . Rice water can therefore be a great option for those looking to reduce their caffeine or theine intake while still enjoying an invigorating and nourishing drink. You can include it in your usual drinks, or consume it cold, lightly sweetened or flavored with spices such as cinnamon or vanilla.
Save the rice cooking water
To get the most out of the nutrients in the cooking water, it is best used shortly after cooking the rice, cooled to room temperature. If you don’t use all the water at first, you can store it in an airtight glass container and place it in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. After this time, it is better to avoid consuming it.