If you're looking for a simple, natural way to boost your gut health, increase energy levels, and even support immunity, fermented rice might be the ancient superfood you're missing. Popular in South India, North-East India, and parts of Asia, fermented rice is also known as Pakhala Bhaat, Panta Bhaat, or Neeragaram. This traditional delight is slowly becoming a wellness staple.

Unlike trendy diets, fermented rice is a probiotic food that's loaded with essential nutrients, beneficial bacteria, and digestive enzymes. It's cost effective, filling, and ease to prepare.

1. Boosts Gut Health And Digestion Naturally

Fermented rice is rich in natural probiotics that support gut flora balance. When soaked overnight in water, lactic acid bacteria begins to multiply, making it a powerhouse for digestion. These probiotics help break down complex carbs, reduce bloating, and enhance nutrient absorption. Having this simple dish can aid acidity, constipation, and poor digestion.

2. Cools Down The Body

According to Ayurveda, this fermented rice is known to naturally cool down the body. It provides hydration and reduces internal heat, helping prevent fatigue, sunstroke, and skin eruptions. That's why it's often eaten with curd, onions, or buttermilk during the hot months. Fermented rice naturally lowers internal inflammation and can be helpful for people with chronic acidity, ulcers, or inflammatory conditions.

3. Strengthens Immunity

A healthy gut is directly linked to a strong immune system. The probiotics in fermented rice promote the growth of good gut bacteria. This bacteria helps the body ward off infections, viruses, and inflammation. Regular intake of fermented rice can strengthen the natural defense system of your body, making it an important addition during seasonal changes.

4. Improves Nutrient Availability

When rice is fermented overnight, the levels of phytic acid in it drops, making minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium more bioavailable. This makes fermented rice more nutrient-dense and allows your body to absorb more micronutrients from the same amount of food. It's a great meal for people who suffer from iron deficiency or low energy levels.

5. Supports Skin Health And Detoxification

Fermented rice can flush out all the toxins, balance the gut, and improve hydration. It contributes to a healthier skin with the help of its detoxifying properties. Some people even use the water leftover from soaking rice as a face rinse to brighten and soften the skin. It acts as a natural detoxifier for the body and works wonders from inside out.

How To Eat Fermented Rice

• Take leftover cooked rice in a bowl, add in some water, and let it soak overnight. It's best made in an earthen pot or glass bowl.
• The next morning, add a tadka of salt, mustard seeds, onion, and curry leaves.
• You can have it with curd for an enhanced taste.
• The leftover water, or kanji can also be consumed for better hydration and detoxification.

Fermented rice is a nutritional powerhouse that's packed with healing benefits. It's easy to make, easy to digest, and deeply rooted in Indian culinary heritage.