Over 40% of rice consumers ate diets containing no more than 30% of calories from fat compared to 30% of non-rice consumers Compared to non-rice eaters, rice eaters' diets had: More grains More vegetablesMore fiberLess added fat and saturated fatLess added sugarRice consumers ate just over a half serving more of vegetables per day and a half serving more of fruit per day Rice consumers ate 4.5 grams less fat (1 tsp) per day and 3.3 grams less sugar. (That equals 54 calories per day which could translate to a savings of up to 5.5 pounds that could be avoided due to excess sugar and fat calories consumed over the course of a year.)

The USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that calories from carbohydrates make up 45-65% of total daily calories. Including a healthy complex carbohydrate, such as natural whole grain brown and enriched white rice into a balanced diet, can help improve overall health. In fact, a nutritious diet, along with being physically active and avoiding smoking can help save almost one million lives annually in the U.S.(i) A healthy lifestyle is the best prescription for improving our nation's health.

"In light of today's obesity epidemic, the data showing that rice eaters eat less fat and sugar and, as a result, tend to eliminate a lot of calories that they don't need from their diets, is good news for people who are looking to adopt a healthier eating style and maintain a healthy weight," says Julie Upton, MS, RD, CSSD, a registered dietitian and study co-author. "In addition, rice is economical, at only 10 cents per serving, and partners well with heart-healthy foods like vegetables, beans, seafood, nuts and soy foods -- all healthful foods that we encourage individuals to enjoy."

SOURCE USA Rice Federation