As reported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the FAO All Rice Price Index witnessed a 2.8 percent escalation in July compared to the preceding month, with an average value of 129.7 points. This reflects an approximate 20 percent surge from the same period in the previous year and marks the most elevated level observed since September 2011.
Factors affecting the increase in rice prices
The escalation in rice prices is being propelled by various factors, including:
Robust rice demand is among the key drivers behind the increasing rice prices.
An additional factor is India’s recent decision to limit exports, causing a reduction in the global rice supply.
Unpredictable weather patterns in certain rice-producing nations have resulted in diminished yields, exacerbating the supply shortage.
Impending Impact of Rising Rice Prices on Global Food Security
The escalating cost of rice is poised to exert a substantial influence on food security across numerous nations. Rice stands as a fundamental dietary item for millions of individuals worldwide, and the elevated prices could create challenges in affording this vital nourishment.
Global Rice Trade Dynamics: Exporting and Importing Nations with Focus on India
Countries such as India, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Pakistan are prominent rice exporters, whereas China, the Philippines, Benin, Senegal, Nigeria, and Malaysia play a crucial role as rice importers.
In the fiscal year 2022-23, India’s exports of non-basmati white rice amounted to USD 4.2 million, a notable increase from the previous year’s USD 2.62 million. Noteworthy destinations for India’s non-basmati white rice exports encompass the US, Thailand, Italy, Spain, and Sri Lanka.
About Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
The Food and Agriculture Organization serves as a specialized United Nations agency dedicated to spearheading global initiatives aimed at eradicating hunger and enhancing both nutrition and food security.
The FAO consists of 195 members, which encompass 194 nations along with the European Union. Its headquarters is located in Rome, Italy, and it oversees various regional and field offices globally, functioning across more than 130 countries.
Additionally, it conducts research, delivers technical support for projects, organizes educational and training initiatives, and gathers data on agricultural output, production, and development.
Tired of that powdery mildew on those tomato plants every season? Don’t worry, there are a few ways to save those plants before the fungus spreads!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Spacing tomato plants 2 to 4 feet apart and pruning low-hanging leaves can help prevent powdery mildew by increasing airflow and decreasing moisture.
Using conventional fungicides every 7 to 14 days before infection occurs can help prevent the spread of the fungus on tomato plants.
Constant air circulation, achieved through staking and tying tomato plants, can help kill the fungus and prevent powdery mildew from developing and spreading.
When the warm season rolls around, gardeners already have an idea of the fruit and vegetables they want to grow throughout the spring, so they’re ready for harvest by summer. One of the more popular fruits to grow are tomatoes. Because of their bountiful harvest, tomatoes are the perfect first crop to grow at home.
The downside to growing tomatoes is that they’re victims of powdery mildew that coats the skin or attacks the leaves. This mildew is a fungus, and because fungi love humidity and a moist environment, tomatoes can be affected as the fungus travels via the soil or wind.
The fungus starts as yellow spots on leaves before turning white (looking like baking flour). Plants that are stressed and aren’t taken care of properly are more susceptible to getting this fungus, but is there a way to protect home-grown tomatoes and keep the fungus at bay? Yes! There are a few easy ways to keep that evil mildew away.
Space and Pruning
The best way to prevent the white powdery mildew on tomato plants is to start at the beginning when planting. Because this fungus enjoys humidity and close quarters, spacing tomato plants about 2 to 4 feet apart is best. By spacing them 2 feet apart – and rows 4 feet from each other — the plant gets more natural light (at least six to eight hours of full sun) and oxygen. Therefore, decreasing moisture and powdery mildew.
Once the tomato plant starts growing branches and sprouting leaves, it’s important to focus on the foliage closest to the soil. Because fungus cells start in the soil, the spores can easily attach to low-hanging foliage or branches. By pruning the low-hanging leaves, it decreases the chances of the fungus growing up the plant.
Conventional Fungicides
If a gardener needs help keeping the white mildew away from their plants, choosing conventional fungicides can be prudent. Fungicides will not cure a plant after its infection, but a gardener can prevent disease by spraying fungicides every 7 to 14 days before the likeliness of illness begins.
Before buying a fungicide, make sure that it’s safe for tomatoes and follow the instructions for how much fungicide to spray. When tomato plants are 10 to 12 inches tall, spraying the fungicide is encouraged. While gardeners can spray the fungicide on the plant, they can also mix it with one gallon of water for better coverage. You can continue spraying the plant throughout the growing season (March through September). Spraying the fungicide before infection occurs is the best way to avoid it altogether.
Improve Air Circulation
To kill the fungus, tomato plants need constant air circulation. Circulating air can start as early as planting the seeds. By staking the plant, it will have enough space from other plants for air circulation and the ability to grow, and it won’t be too low for the soil to be compromised by disease.
Using a stake, a gardener should place it about 6 to 12 inches into the ground before tying the plant loosely to the stake. As the plant grows taller, continuing to tie it to the stake will make space for ventilation, while the plant gets ample sun (at least six hours a day) and space from other plants. Proper airflow will help keep powdery mildew from developing and spreading.
Get Rid of Diseased Plants
To ensure the white mildew on tomato plants doesn’t spread, it’s best to get rid of the infected plant. Moisture on leaves only helps spread the spores more. If fungicides weren’t used or the mildew spread too rapidly, it’s best not to eat the tomatoes and destroy the plant before the mildew rips through the garden.
Dig the tomato plant out of the soil and toss it in the garbage or burn it instead of composting it. Composting the diseased plant only further spreads the disease into whatever is being composted, thus infecting new soil before a tomato plant can even get started safely.
Try Approved Natural Oils
Multiple different fungi diseases can infect tomato plants. If the powdery mildew is in small amounts and hasn’t infected the entire plant, horticultural oils can be the way to go. Oils like Saf-T-Side Spray Oil, neem, or Sunspray Ultra-Fine Spray Oil can be a huge help. It should be noted that oils shouldn’t be applied if the plants are in distress from heat above 90 degrees Fahrenheit or are in a drought.
The oil can wind up burning the leaves when interacting with the sun, thus stressing the plant all the more. The best time of day to apply oils like neem is at dusk or early evening to avoid possible burns.
While Saf-T-Side Spray and Sunspray Ultra-Fine Spray should be used as directed, natural oils like neem and jojoba differ. If using neem (which can also defer insects), gardeners can add 2½ Tbsp. per gallon of water and spray the plant and the soil every 7 to 14 days. It’s important to remember the undersides of the leaves as well!
The five-member committee investigating the circumstances leading to the death of two fishers has said the report on the inquiry will be ready on Friday, August 11, 2023.
In a world where everyone strives to be healthy, it’s easy to be fooled by clever marketing tactics that make us believe certain foods are good for us. Unfortunately, not everything labeled “healthy” is good for our health. Join us as we uncover ten unhealthy foods that have successfully disguised themselves as nutritious choices.
1. Fruit-Flavored Yogurt
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Yogurt, a staple in many people’s diets, can be a nutritional powerhouse. However, fruit-flavored yogurts often harbor high amounts of added sugars, turning them into sweet treats rather than healthy snacks.
In the long run, eventually, you might learn that high sugar level is capable of causing concern in terms of higher blood pressure, inflammation, weight gain, diabetes, and fatty liver disease. It’s best to opt for plain yogurt and add fresh fruit for a truly nutritious option.
2. Veggie Chips
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Veggie chips may sound smart, but don’t be fooled by the name. You might even see such labels as “health halo” on some of their packets to formally have you fooled that they genuinely have the value of fresh veggies.
Despite containing small amounts of vegetable powder, most veggie chips are still deep-fried and loaded with unhealthy fats and excessive salt. Instead, reach for fresh veggies or air-popped popcorn as healthier alternatives.
3. Granola
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Granola has gained a reputation as a healthy breakfast or snack option. However, many store-bought granolas contain added sugars, oils, and artificial additives. You already know what excess sugar is capable of.
Excess oil and artificial additives can be just as harmful. Our advice? Read the labels carefully before purchasing from the store, or better still, make your own granola using whole grains, nuts, and a touch of natural sweetener.
4. Smoothies
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Smoothies can seem like a refreshing and nutritious choice, but be cautious. Pre-made or store-bought smoothies often contain excessive added sugars, artificial flavors, and unhealthy fats. There is nothing, in fact, original about them.
To enjoy a healthy smoothie, make it at home with fresh fruits, vegetables, and a protein source like Greek yogurt. Entirely avoid those spills at the store.
5. Energy Bars
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Energy bars are marketed as a convenient and healthy snack option for busy individuals. They say such things as “eat to be energized” to enable you to work for longer hours nonstop. Sadly, many of these bars are loaded with sugars, refined grains, and artificial ingredients.
I’m not asking that you entirely forgo them, but look for bars with minimal ingredients, natural sweeteners, and a good balance of protein and fiber.
6. Gluten-Free Products
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Gluten-free has become a popular buzzword, leading many to believe that gluten-free products are automatically healthier. However, gluten-free alternatives often contain refined flour, added sugars, and unhealthy additives to compensate for the lack of gluten.
You get the whole gist now, don’t you? If you don’t have a gluten intolerance, choose whole-grain options instead.
7. Low-Fat Salad Dressings
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Salads are a go-to for health-conscious individuals. You feel you need to watch your weight, for example, and the first advice for diet options you’re given is “do salads.” That’s not bad advice, but be wary of low-fat salad dressings.
These dressings often compensate for the reduced fat by adding excessive amounts of sodium, sugar, and artificial additives. It’s healthier if you can go for homemade dressings using olive oil, vinegar, and herbs for a healthier choice.
8. Fruit Juice
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Once, someone referred to a glass of fruit juice over dinner as a “glass full of sugar,” and thinking about it now, I don’t think they were wrong. Fruit juice may seem like a natural choice for a vitamin boost, but it can be a deceptive source of hidden sugars.
Most packaged juices lack the fiber in whole fruits, leading to a concentrated dose of sugar. Enjoy whole fruits instead, and if you crave juice, make it fresh at home.
9. Protein Bars
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These were my favorite things until I learned they are a sneaky candy bar substitute. Whether or not you agree, protein bars are often marketed as a nutritious option for athletes or as meal replacements.
However, many protein bars contain high amounts of sugar, unhealthy fats, and artificial ingredients. Be cautious and look out for bars with a good balance of protein and fiber.
10. Low-Calorie Snacks
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Snack foods labeled as low-calorie may seem like a guilt-free indulgence but don’t be deceived. These might taste nice and appear to be what it poses to be. Still, most often compensate for the reduced calories by adding artificial sweeteners, unhealthy additives, and refined ingredients.
A better option for you should be whole foods like fruits, vegetables, or a handful of nuts for a truly nourishing snack.
The Jaman North District Director of the Department of Agriculture, Victor Yao-Dablu, has advised cashew farmers to refocus attention on quality and value addition to boost export earnings.
This, he believes, will help create more jobs for Ghana’s fast-growing population.
He said for every amount earned in the export of raw cashew nuts, the country would have made much more if processed nuts were exported.
Mr Yao-Dablu, who suggested this in an interview with JoyNews’ Nestor Kafui Adjomah, urged the farmers to emulate what the Asia continent is doing concerning value addition.
‘‘We are not maximising the potential of the cashew crop in terms of job creation and revenue generation because we are not adding value,’’ he emphasised.
He further called on farmers to take advice from the Agricultural Extension Agents (AEA) to dry their Raw Cashew Nuts (RCN) under shade to have high-quality nuts to sell instead of drying them in the sun and storing nuts in jute sacks.
The Jaman North District Director of Agriculture noted that if actors in the cashew value chain concentrate on increasing value addition, 50 per cent more jobs could be created owing to the multiplier effects.
However, he stated that despite the potential for growth in the sector, several challenges including limited access to finance and abuse of agrochemicals, are hindering the rapid development of the cashew industry.
Mr Yao-Dablu urged agriculture civil society groups to work with actors across the cashew value chain to boost the production of quality cashew nuts in the country.
“Bono Region is virtually leading in the production of cashew nuts, but to be competitive enough, we need to produce quality cashew because we now have competitors in Asia who are producing more with better quality,” he explained.
He noted the link between the farmers and processors should be well-tightened so that they can collaborate effectively to ensure that quality for processors to buy at the right price.
“With this, the cashew value chain in the Bono Region will succeed and be sustainable,” he added.
A merchant in raw cashew nuts from the Tain District, Solomon Ameyaw, said cashew has become an important export commodity for the country’s economy, adding that Africa produces over 50 per cent of the nuts consumed globally.
He noted that ”to ensure the sustainability and competitiveness of our cashew, we must add value to the cashew nuts because when we export raw cashew nuts, we are exporting our jobs out of Ghana’’.
Mr Ameyaw added that raw cashew nut production and processing are essential economic activities, providing livelihoods for several smallholder farmers, youth and women in the Bono Region.
He explained that “while the industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, challenges such as price volatility, unstable policies, inconsistent quality, environmental impacts and unstable policies among others are still critical issues unresolved’’.
Our food system’s hidden heroes are seeds. They are little, yet they have enormous power and promise. They are the foundation upon which our entire food supply is built.
Seeds serve a critical role in guaranteeing food security, fostering biodiversity, and preserving the lives of millions of farmers in Ghana, a country known for its agricultural traditions.
Seeds are more than simply tiny capsules that sprout into plants; they are living containers. They contain the genetic information that determines crop traits, attributes, and yields. Farmers’ seed selection has a substantial impact on the production, hardiness, and nutritional value of the food we consume.
In Ghana, where agriculture is the backbone of the economy, choosing and using the right seeds is critical. Access to high-quality seeds that are suited to local conditions and resistant to climate change is critical. These seeds are resistant to variable weather patterns, pests, and diseases, allowing farmers to produce constant and reliable harvests.
Furthermore, seeds have the potential to increase the diversity of our food chain. Ghana has a diverse range of traditional and indigenous crops that have fed its people for years. These crops, which are frequently cultivated from traditional seeds, have high nutritional content have been improved over time and are well-suited to local climates and soils. We can protect our cultural history, preserve traditional knowledge, and strengthen the resilience of our food system by encouraging the planting of the various improved seed varieties.
To fully realize the potential of seeds, it is critical to invest in research and development. Collaborations among scientists, farmers, and seed breeders can result in the production of superior seed types with high yields, nutritional value, and durability. These activities can help to improve crops, promote sustainable agriculture, and solve farmers’ evolving challenges.
Equally crucial are capacity-building projects that teach farmers on the significance of quality seeds and equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively handle, store, and conserve seeds. Farmers must understand the value of utilizing certified seeds that have passed thorough quality testing to ensure their dependability. Farmers can enhance yields, reduce crop losses, and increase income by implementing such measures.
Furthermore, it is necessary to build strong seed systems and infrastructure. Ghana should prioritize the establishment of seed processing and storage facilities, as well as quality control and certification processes. These programs will provide farmers with genuine, high-quality seeds that are free of contamination or adulteration. Furthermore, efforts should be made to develop seed delivery networks, particularly in rural regions, to ensure farmers have easy access to the seeds they require.
Women, who make up a sizable component of Ghana’s agricultural workforce, should be prioritized in seed-related projects. Providing information, resources, and access to excellent seeds to women farmers can lead to increased agricultural output, income generation, and gender equality.
Farmers’ organizations, community seed banks, and seed cooperatives all play important roles in seed conservation and exchange. These efforts promote group action, knowledge sharing, and the conservation of local seed diversity. Ghana can foster seed sovereignty and enable farmers to become active participants in creating the future of the country’s food system by supporting and strengthening these community-based seed systems.
Seeds are the cornerstone of our food system, not merely a means to an end. Ghana can construct a resilient and sustainable food system that assures food security, protects biodiversity, and supports the well-being of its people by recognizing their importance, promoting seed diversity, investing in research and development, and improving seed systems.
Let us celebrate the modest seed and recognize its critical role in feeding our nation. Let us sow the seeds of a brighter, more sustainable future for Ghana’s food system together.
Half rotten chicken. Isolated on white background.
The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has apprehended a food vendor at the OA Bus Terminal in Accra, for selling contaminated food to the public.
The AMA in a communique revealed that the vendor by name Faustina Naana Eshien was arrested on Tuesday after it was revealed that she had been selling rotten chicken to customers.
The assembly noted that the arrest was necessitated after “a Facebook post by Obaa Yaa Bediide on the TroTro Diaries page about the discovery when she purchased from the vendor who admitted the offence and decided to split the GHC20 cost of the chicken into two citing low patronage.”
According to the Head of Public Affairs at the AMA, Mr. Gilbert Ankrah, the food vendor was apprehended for selling rotten fried chicken for public consumption and failing to obtain medical health certificate after the news broke on social media about her activities.
This, he noted, goes contrary to the AMA bye-law and the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), Section 100(3) which prohibits a person from selling or offering for sale food that is unwholesome or unfit for human or animal consumption and consists in whole or in part of a filthy, putrid, rotten, decomposed or diseased animal or vegetable substance.
The food vendor is expected to be arraigned before a court for prosecution.
The AMA hopes this action would serve as a deterrent to would-be offenders.
The Fair Trade Ghana Network (FTGN) in collaboration with Small Producer Symbols (SPPs), a Fair-Trade Label with its headquarters in Mexico and operating globally in over twenty-five (25) producing countries organised a day’s event in Ghana to build local and global markets that value the identity, economic, social, cultural and ecological contributions of products from Small Producers’ Organizations.
The Small Producers Symbol (SPP), is a label that represents an alliance among organized small producers to build a local and global market that values the identity and the economic, social, cultural and ecological contributions of p
The Fair Trade Ghana Network (FTGN) in collaboration with Small Producer Symbols (SPPs), a Fair-Trade Label with its headquarters in Mexico and operating globally in over twenty-five (25) producing countries organised a day’s event in Ghana to build local and global markets that value the identity, economic, social, cultural and ecological contributions of products from Small Producers’ Organizations.
Target This alliance is based on a relationship of collaboration, trust and co-responsibility among women and men who are small producers, with buyers and consumers.
The SPP represents the identity of organized small fair trade producers, to distinguish them in local and global markets with their products and values.
The event which took place in Kumasi in the Ashanti Region is the first of its kind in Ghana and was aimed at introducing, sensitizing, and discussing with selected cooperatives about the Label and its benefits to those in the Agriculture Value Chain.
The event brought together a total of thirty-five (35) participants from the cocoa, rice, shea, fruits and food crops value chain including representatives from two key stakeholders namely Department of Cooperatives, Ghana, and the Agronomists and Veterinarians without borders (AVSF) grace the occasion.
Presentations Coordinator of Fair Trade Ghana Network (FTGN), Felix Ayambire, in his address, mentioned that FTGN has a membership-based platform of certified Fair Trade organisations from the Flocert-Fairtrade, Ecocert-Fair for life, and World Fair Trade Organisations.
He explained that members of the Network operate in various sectors including the Art & Crafts, Cocoa, Fruits and Nuts (Mango, Pineapple, Cocoa, Oranges, Banana, Citrus) value chain.
“The Network harmonises and brings together member cooperatives under one umbrella for the purposes of markets, trainings on sustainable production practices, advocacy, gender, leadership management, entrepreneurship development” he mentioned.
The West African Coordinator of Small Producer Symbols (SPP’s), Koffi Djade who was the lead facilitator explained the benefits and importance of building a local and global market that values the identity and the contributions of products from Small Producers’ Organizations.
He stated that the SPP is an intercontinental network of ecological small-producer organizations that was created to give small producers across the globe a level of value and proper identity in the Fair trade system.
“The Small Producer Symbols (SPPs) Global was born in 2006 as a result of a historical process of capacity building and self-empowerment of small Producer organizations.
“In partnership with committed companies, consumers and legitimized by independent certification, SPP fight for the recognition of producers work and high-quality products, a dignified life, and a healthy planet for all.
“SPP has its own, widely recognized system of standards and sustainable prices, reflecting the reality of small producers. The SPP Standards are backed up by an independent certification system which grants security to producers, consumers and traders across the globe.
“Presently, the label has 125 small producer organisations across twenty-five (25) countries with sixty different products” he mentioned.
About SPPs SPP is an intercontinental network of ecological small-producer organizations. In partnership with committed companies and consumers and legitimized by independent certification, we fight for the recognition of our work and high-quality products, a dignified life, and a healthy planet for all.
Through the collaborative efforts of stakeholders and the US government, as well as the resuscitation of commodity boards by Africa’s biggest economy, Nigeria is set to overtake Ivory Coast and Ghana in developing a sustainable cocoa supply chain, the country’s cocoa farmers association has said.
In light of this, the US Traceability and Resilience in Agriculture and Cocoa Ecosystems of Nigeria (TRACE) project implemented by Lutheran World Relief has approved of a $22 million five year development program.
The five year program covers; traceability, climate smart practices, inputs support to smallholder farmers, capacity building along the value chain and exports in collaboration with the Nigerian cocoa stakeholders.
Adeola Adegoke, national president, Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria said if the implementation of the TRACE project will help the country overtake the likes of Ivory Coast and Ghana on growing cocoa sustainably.
He called on the European Union to begin seeing Nigeria as a cocoa origin country taking the bull by the horn to address the challenges of cocoa sustainability as the TRACE project kick starts with the government readiness to resuscitate the Nigeria Cocoa Board.
“The cocoa commodity board was once noted for the growth of the industry and the driver of the commodity that gave the highest foreign exchange earnings to the federal government, especially when Nigeria was adjudged the best producer of flavor cocoa beans in West Africa with good aroma,” he said.
“This policy if well implemented will bring back the lost glory of the sector, when Nigeria was regarded as the second highest producer of cocoa in the 60’s and early 70’s with about 490,000 MTS,” he added.
Leading cocoa producers Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana have been reported to be making significant progress in ending deforestation as they prepare for the potential introduction of strict new EU sustainability laws. The EU has proposed to completely ban unsustainable cocoa beans from entering the international markets, come 2025. The two countries, Ivory Coast and Ghana, released reports in 2022, claiming they had reached new traceability milestones.
Côte d’Ivoire said it had mapped 3.2m hectares of cocoa farms while Ghana said it had mapped 72 percent of its total cocoa growing area via its national Cocoa Management System, both covering 515,762 farmers and 845,635 farms at the time.
Nigeria is presently fourth in cocoa production behind Ivory Coast, Ghana and Indonesia with about 2.2 million MTS, 800,000 MTS and 739,483 MTS respectively, while Nigeria with 340,000 MTS and currently targeting 500,000 MTS by the year 2024.
“It accounts for 6.5 percent share of global production, after Ivory Coast, Ghana and Indonesia. Nigeria currently realises $700 million annually from the exports of cocoa beans and cannot afford to lose guard considering her huge investments in the cocoa industry that valued close to 500 billion naira,” Adegoke said.
Stakeholders have already begun taking numerous actions that are presently addressing some of the challenges militating against the sustainability of the sector like child labour menace, deforestation, traceability, application of unapproved or banned pesticide in cocoa farms, among others.
Rice water is a versatile and natural solution with health benefits. Read on to know seven ways to use rice water.
Ever wondered if there’s more to rice water than just a cooking byproduct? Well, turns out, this humble liquid might hold the secret to some fantastic health benefits! Yes, you heard that right – the same water you drain after cooking rice has a bunch of amazing perks for your body. So, let’s explore the many ways in which you can use rice water to promote your overall well-being and achieve a healthier lifestyle.
Rice water has been gaining popularity as a natural health elixir with numerous benefits for the body. Packed with essential nutrients and compounds, this simple and cost-effective remedy has been used for centuries in Asian cultures for various health purposes.
Ways to use rice water for maximum health benefits
1. Digestive health
According to the 2021 study published by the National Institute of Health, rice water contains starch, which is known for its soothing properties that can aid in relieving digestive issues. If you are experiencing diarrhea or an upset stomach, try consuming a small glass of diluted rice water. The starch acts as a binding agent, helping to alleviate discomfort and promoting a more stable gut environment.
2. Rehydration
After a bout of illness or vigorous physical activity, it’s essential to rehydrate properly. Rice water offers a natural electrolyte balance, making it an ideal choice for rehydration. The fluid helps restore lost fluids and minerals, preventing dehydration and fatigue.
3. Skin Care
Rice water is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can work wonders for your skin. It has been used as a traditional beauty treatment in many Asian countries to achieve flawless and radiant skin. You can apply rice water as a toner, gently dabbing it on your face with a cotton ball or use it as a soothing bath soak to relieve irritated skin conditions like eczema or sunburn.
4. Hair Care
Nourishing your hair with rice water can improve its strength and appearance. The amino acids present in rice water help repair damaged hair follicles and reduce hair breakage. After shampooing, rinse your hair with rice water hair serum to promote shine and overall hair health. For added benefits, you can also use fermented rice water, as it enhances the concentration of nutrients and boosts its nourishing properly.
5. Immune Support
A strong immune system is crucial for preventing illness and maintaining optimal health. A 2022 study published by the National Institute of Health states that rice water contains essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B, iron, zinc, and magnesium, that support the immune system’s function. Regular consumption of rice water can help fortify your body’s defense against infections and diseases.
6. Menstrual Cramp Relief
A study published by the National Institute of Health believes that for women experiencing menstrual cramps, rice water can be a natural remedy for menstrual cramps. The relaxing properties of rice water can help soothe muscle contractions and reduce pain during menstruation. Drink a warm cup of rice water when you feel discomfort to experience relief.
7. Weight Management
If you’re looking to shed some extra pounds, rice water may assist you on your weight loss journey. It is low in calories and can serve as a healthy alternative to sugary beverages. Drinking rice water may help you feel fuller for longer, reducing the temptation to snack between meals.
Whether you choose to consume it or apply it topically, incorporating rice water into your daily routine can lead to a healthier and more vibrant life. Embrace the power of rice water and unlock its potential for a healthier you!
