Little-known purple 'superfood' can improve your health inside and out

A vibrant 'superfood' - sometimes called purple rice - has been linked to reducing the risk of various diseases. This chewy and lightly sweet grain pairs well with stir-fried, grilled, soup and braised dishes.

Officially known as 'riceberry' rice, it is primarily grown in northern Thailand. Despite its existence for years, not many people outside Asia know of it and its potential health benefits.

The grain is a product of cross-breeding different types of rice, resulting in a striking purple hue. It gets its name from having a slightly sweet taste and berry-like fragrance.

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A serving of the rice contains vitamin E, beta carotene, and gamma oryzanol - potent antioxidants. These can enhance the health of your skin and eyes, and reduce the risk of heart disease, certain cancers, and other chronic illnesses.

Riceberry rice is also a good source of vitamin K and manganese. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health, and manganese is an essential mineral for metabolism and bone health.

The rice is also fibre-rich, improving digestion and gut health. According to the Mirror, eating plenty of fibre is linked to a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and bowel cancer, as per NHS guidelines.

Fibre aids in the digestion and absorption of nutrients. It reduces the contact time of carcinogens within the intestinal lumen - the space within the intestines that allows digested food to pass through.

This particular grain boasts three times more iron than other rice varieties, a vital nutrient needed for the functioning of red blood cells. The NHS advises that men require about 8.7mg daily, while women aged between 19 and 49 should aim slightly higher at 14.8mg.

An iron deficiency can compromise the immune system, making the body more prone to illness and infection. Iron is instrumental in creating haemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen around the body.

Without sufficient oxygen, organs can suffer damage. Additionally, the heart may have to work overtime to compensate for a lack of red blood cells, potentially leading to heart conditions like heart failure.

Riceberry also contains zinc, which aids in breaking down proteins and producing collagen, thereby improving skin health and appearance. It also benefits hair and nails, as they are made from collagen.

Due to its high carbohydrate content, rice can be filling, keeping you fuller and energised for longer periods. This could help with weight management by reducing the temptation to snack or overeat.

However, this potent superfood has its drawbacks. It's not easily available outside of Thailand and can be quite pricey where it is stocked, making it perhaps not the best everyday alternative.