Rice and roti, both are the staples in Indian cuisine and it is difficult to choose just one as they are either part of breakfast, lunch or dinner. However, weight watchers find it difficult more as several reports claim different things and debate of rice vs wheat will be on forever. Some claim rice needs to be excluded while some state that carb-rich wheat chapatis should be out from the diet. Most of the time rice is what people ditch when they are on weight loss and they are replaced by rotis.
Rice vs Wheat: Read on to know which is the ideal choice for weight loss:
1. Calories and nutrition profile
However, in the fight between the two, roti kind of wins when it comes to weight loss considering the macros and calories. Medium size of roti has 100 calories, 40 grams of complex carbs, 7 grams of protein, 5 grams of dietary fiber and 1.4 grams of fats. On the other hand, one serving of rice has around 200 calories, 53 grams of simple carbs, a few grams of protein and negligible fiber. The Glycemic index of wheat is less in comparison to rice. Also, Rotis have more fiber and the same us feel fuller for a long time and that’s not the case in rice.
2. Best versions of rice and roti
However, whole wheat can lead to lethargy and other issues so ideally go for multigrain atta or add wheat bran in your mix. Also, the rice we eat is the white and polished ones that lack a lot of nutrients. So instead of white polished ones go for the brown rice. Ideally one should go for semi-brown-hand-pounded rice or red rice as they are high in fiber and full of micronutrients. Also, make sure to complement it with high protein and low-fat food items to make the most of the rice.
3. Don’t ditch any of them
So, instead of fighting over rice vs wheat one should go the ideal versions and healthier versions of both and include them in your diet whenever you want. However, make sure you have control over the portion sizes.
4. What Nutritionists say on rice vs wheat
Nutritionist Diksha Chhabra earlier had told Pinkvilla that calorie deficit is what will help to lose weight and rice or any food leads to giving calorie, however, rice has a bad reputation as it is a simple carb. It gets digested very quickly and you get instant carbs for energy. If the dieter is exercising and maintaining your calorie requirement, eating rice will not harm you. You can eat rice, however, you have to plan in a smart way.