Okay, buckle up. Did you know that folic acid is actually synthetic? It’s the man-made version of folate. Your body has to convert it into something useful, like a teenager converting an allowance into pizza.
And here’s the kicker: the U.S. government started mandating folic acid fortification in 1998 to reduce birth defects. Since then, rates of neural tube defects dropped by about 36%. That’s a win for science, and a win for anyone who eats enriched pasta or cereal.
So, if you eat white rice that’s not enriched, you’re basically skipping a public health party. Don’t be that person.
Brown Rice Vs White Rice Fiber at Alvin Beck blog
What About Your Sushi?
Ah, good question. Sushi rice is usually short-grain white rice, and unless it’s specifically labeled as enriched (most isn’t), you’re getting zero folic acid. Sorry, raw fish fans.
You’d need to eat about four entire sushi platters to get enough folate naturally—and your wallet would cry. Better to grab a side of edamame or a bowl of fortified cereal for breakfast.
