Purple rice may reduce risk of cancer and heart disease

Consumption of the "little-known" colorful "superfood" known as purple rice has been linked to reduced risk of various diseases. Its chewy texture and mild sweetness pair perfectly with all kinds of stir-fried dishes, grilled foods, soups and stews.

Purple rice is mainly grown in the northern parts of Thailand. Although it has been known for years, few people outside Asia know of its existence and how beneficial it can be for health, the Mirror reported.

The grain is the result of crossbreeding different types of rice, resulting in a bright purple hue. What's even better is that it has various health benefits.

A serving of rice is packed with vitamin E, beta carotene and gamma oryzanol, which are powerful antioxidants. They can help improve the health of your skin and eyes, as well as combat the risk of developing heart disease, certain cancers, and other chronic diseases.

Rice is also full of fiber, and fiber consumption is known to improve digestion and gut health. According to the UK National Health Service (NHS), a high fibre intake is associated with a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and bowel cancer.