How to Germinate Rice for Increased Nutrition

Although it has a bitter flavor, the nutritional benefits of germinated, also known as sprouted, brown rice are numerous. It is more readily digested, so it is a very useful dietary addition for those who have a weakened digestive system. Brown rice is rich in B vitamins, and it also has a low glycemic index, which means that it helps to regulate blood sugar, and is therefore very helpful for people who suffer with diabetes. According to elements4health.com, germinated brown rice is rich in molecules known as acylated steryl-beta-glucosides (ASGs), which act on diabetic enzymes, reinforcing the body's anti-diabetic mechanisms.

Things You'll Need

• cup of brown rice
• wide flat bottomed bowl
• sieve
• 2 large pieces of linen (12" by 12")

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Instructions

• 1

  Rinse the brown rice, and go through it gently with your fingers to remove any debris, grit, etc.

• 2

  Place the rice in the flat-bottomed bowl and add enough water to cover the surface of the rice.

• 3

  Soak the rice in this container for 12-18 hours. Squeeze a few grains between your finger and thumb to check that it is softening. Add more water during this time, if needed.

• 4

  When the rice has finished soaking, rinse it under a running tap in the sieve. Wet the linen cloth, and use it to line the bottom of the bowl that the rice has been soaking in. Spread the rice on it, then place the second piece of linen, also wet, on top. You can sprinkle more water on top if the linen cloths dry out.

• 5

  Germinate the brown rice for one or two days. Remove from the cloths, rinse, and allow it to settle for a few minutes in a sieve.