In the wake of recently released dietary guidelines from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), some rice distributors have been quick to point out that the nutrition derived from whole grain rice is still considered healthy.

The USDA’s recommended eating regimen derives between 45 and 65 percent of its calories from carbohydrates, but necessarily from whole grains rather than processed foods.

Steamed rice contains no added sugars, salt or fats. It does contain fiber, however, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends consuming around 28 grams of each day.

Some enriched rice also contains approximately one quarter of the daily recommended allowance of folate in each one-cup serving. Folate, or vitamin B9, is essential for nearly every cellular function in the human body.

Studies have found that certain colors of rice may confer added health benefits.

One study, conducted in 2010, found that black rice – or rice that has not had its husk removed – reduces inflammation by preventing the release of histamine. Another paper published the same year suggested that eating brown rice may reduce the risk of high blood pressure and atherosclerosis.