Rice: Part of a balanced diet

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) replaced its original food guide pyramid with a new program called "MyPyramid." Designed to improve effectiveness in motivating consumers to make healthier food choices, the program also reflects the latest nutritional science.

Nutritionally, rice is hard to beat:

• All UNCLE BEN'S® parboiled long grain white and flavored rice are enriched with B-vitamins, including thiamin, folic acid, and niacin, as well as iron. It naturally has minerals like phosphorous, magnesium and potassium.
• A one-cup serving of UNCLE BEN'S® 100% whole grain products virtually meets the USDA daily requirement of three-ounce servings of whole grains
• Whole grain brown or milled white rice are nutrient-rich complex carbohydrates, which is where MyPyramid recommends 45-65% of daily calories come from.
• Rice is a natural source of amino acids that give the body what it needs to build strong muscles.
• Rice is naturally sodium- and gluten-free, and hypoallergenic.
• Rice is naturally low in fat - 0g trans fats and cholesterol-free. That's a good thing since nutritionists believe the rise in heart disease, diabetes, obesity and cancer is linked to diets high in fat, trans fat and/or cholesterol.
• Whole grain brown rice contains the germ and bran layers, wherein lie the majority of beneficial nutrients, like antioxidants, phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals. It is a natural source of fiber for a healthy diet.