- Rice pudding is more than just desert.glass of rice pudding with cinnamon with a maroon napkin image by David Smith from Fotolia.com
Rice pudding is a staple comfort food for many people. There are several different variations of rice pudding; however, the basic core ingredients of rice pudding generally remain the same from recipe to recipe. They include milk, white rice, eggs, brown sugar, cinnamon and vanilla extract. The type of milk will determine the fat content and the white rice can vary in size and type. While rice pudding is often eaten as a dessert, it does contain a multitude of vitamins and nutrients. - Choline is a nutrient found in eggs, which are a fundamental ingredient in rice pudding. An interesting fact about choline is that our bodies can produce it, but cannot make enough to fully satisfy what's needed to function properly. Also, if you are deficient in choline, it can lead to a folic acid deficiency as well. Choline is integral for brain health. It is an important part of acetylcholine, which is a neurotransmitter that sends messages to our nerves and muscles.
- Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, is an essential part of our daily diet. Vitamin B2 is responsible for maintaining tissues and breaking down food for our body to use. In addition, this vitamin promotes the production of red blood cells and hormones, and assists in maintaining eye, heart and skin health. Both eggs and milk--two of the core ingredients in rice pudding--are excellent sources of vitamin B2.
- Vitamin D is found in very few foods; however, eggs are an excellent source of vitamin D. Milk is often fortified with vitamin D, as well. This is an essential nutrient that is difficult to obtain, and a deficiency in vitamin D can cause serious health problems. One of the main issues that can occur with vitamin D deficiency is weakening of the muscles and bones, which can lead to osteoporosis later in life.
- Calcium is another nutrient that is essential for strong bones, as well as teeth. Milk, which is always found in rice pudding, is a major source of calcium. In addition to bone health, calcium is also important for regulating blood pressure.
- Manganese is a valuable nutrient found in cinnamon, which is a common ingredient in rice pudding. Manganese activates enzymes that allow the body to utilize essential nutrients. It also helps with reproductive health and sex hormones. Manganese is also helpful for anyone who suffers with blood sugar issues, such as people who are hypoglycemic or insulin resistant, as it regulates blood sugar.
