What are the Nutritional Facts about Jasmine Rice?

Jasmine rice is a long-grain aromatic rice mainly grown in Thailand and widely used in Asian cooking. In India, it is popular for dishes like fried rice, pulao, and rice bowls. Jasmine rice is soft, slightly sticky, and fragrant when cooked. It is mainly a source of carbohydrates and energy. Let us understand the nutritional facts about jasmine rice in simple words.

Nutritional Value of Jasmine Rice (Per 1 Cup Cooked – ~158 g)

NutrientAmount
Calories205 kcal
Carbohydrates45 g
Protein4.3 g
Total Fat0.4 g
Fibre0.6 g
Sugars0 g
Sodium2 mg
Potassium55 mg
Magnesium19 mg
Iron1.9 mg
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)0.2 mg

Values are for white jasmine rice; brown jasmine rice has more fiber.

Key Nutritional Highlights of Jasmine Rice

1. Rich in Carbohydrates

  • Main source of energy
  • Useful for active people
  • Helps meet daily calorie needs

2. Low in Fat and Cholesterol

  • Naturally fat-free
  • No cholesterol
  • Easy to digest

3. Contains B Vitamins

  • Thiamine (B1) supports energy metabolism
  • Important for nerve function

4. Low Fibre Content

  • Less filling compared to brown rice
  • Can raise blood sugar quickly

Health Effects of Eating Jasmine Rice

Energy and Performance

  • Provides quick energy
  • Good for physically active people
  • Common in sports meals

Blood Sugar Impact

  • High glycaemic index
  • Can cause sugar spikes if eaten in excess
  • Diabetics should limit portion size

Digestive Friendly

  • Easy on stomach
  • Suitable during illness or recovery

Jasmine Rice vs Basmati Rice

FeatureJasmine RiceBasmati Rice
AromaSweet, floralNutty
TextureSoft & stickyLong & fluffy
Glycaemic IndexHigherLower
FibreLowSlightly higher
Diabetic FriendlyLessBetter

Is Jasmine Rice Good for Weight Loss?

❌ Not ideal:

  • High carbs
  • Low fibre

✔ Can be eaten in small portions with:

  • Dal or beans
  • Vegetables
  • Protein-rich foods

White vs Brown Jasmine Rice

FeatureWhite Jasmine RiceBrown Jasmine Rice
CaloriesHigherSlightly lower
FibreVery lowHigher
GIHighLower
NutrientsFewerMore

👉 Brown jasmine rice is a healthier choice.

Best Ways to Eat Jasmine Rice

  • With vegetables and dal
  • In fried rice with less oil
  • Paired with protein (paneer, tofu, eggs)
  • Avoid eating alone in large quantity

Who Should Limit Jasmine Rice?

  • People with diabetes
  • Those on low-carb diets
  • Weight loss seekers

Final Thoughts

Jasmine rice is a fragrant, tasty, and energy-rich grain but low in fibre and high in carbohydrates. It is suitable for active people and occasional meals. For better health, control portion size and balance it with fiber and protein-rich foods.