Most of us rinse rice out of habit — to remove dust or excess starch. But there’s something most people don’t know…
Rice absorbs arsenic — a toxic heavy metal — more than most other grains. Why? Because rice is grown in flooded fields, which makes it easier for arsenic from the soil and water (often from years of chemical use) to seep in.
Think brown rice is the healthier option? Nutrient-wise, yes. But it also retains more arsenic because the outer bran layer — where the nutrients are — is also where arsenic gets stored.
How to wash rice the right way:
Rinse 4–5 times until the water runs clear
Soak for 30 minutes before cooking
Cook in excess water and drain the extra, like pasta
What does Ayurveda say about rice?
Ayurveda considers rice — especially aged rice — as light, nourishing, and easy to digest when cooked properly. But it must be clean and free from toxins to truly support health.
Now imagine: You’re at a restaurant, enjoying a full-course meal. The server brings in steaming hot rice..
But was it washed properly?
Want to know how to choose the right kind of rice and prepare it the Ayurvedic way?
Talk to our doctors.
