Nutritional and health properties of germinated brown rice – a review

Abstract

Germinated brown rice (GBR) is a functional ingredient. It is prepared by soaking followed by germination, drying and milling of brown rice grains. It is rich in protein, reducing sugar, dietary fibre, selenium, iron, zinc, calcium and other minerals and B-vitamins. Bioactive compounds present in GBR include γ-amino butyric acid, γ-oryzanol, tocopherol, tocotrienol and tannins. GBR is also rich in flavonoids, phenolic compounds and other antioxidants. Scientific evidence in literature showed that GBR lowers glycemic index, reduces blood cholesterol, controls high blood pressure, inhibits cardiovascular diseases, prevents hypertension, controls type 1 diabetes, corrects type 2 diabetes, inhibits the development of cancers, and treats anxiety disorders.

Keywords: Germinated brown rice, nutritional properties, γ-amino butyric acid, bioactive compounds