What is this food?
Glutinous rice (milled), a starchy carbohydrate food. It’s commonly used for kakanin and other sweet or sticky rice dishes.
Why it matters to health
Glutinous rice gives quick energy because it’s high in carbohydrates (about 80 g per 100 g). It also has a small amount of fiber (about 2.8 g), which helps with fullness and regular digestion. Since it’s low in fat (about 0.8 g) and has very little sugar (about 0.2 g), the main thing to watch is the portion—especially if you eat it often or pair it with fatty/salty toppings. For people managing blood sugar, large servings can raise blood sugar faster because it’s mostly starch.
Healthier tips
- Use a smaller serving per meal (for example, start with about 1/2 to 1 cup cooked rice, then adjust based on your hunger and activity).
- Pair it with protein and fiber to balance the meal—e.g., add egg, fish, chicken, tofu, or a side of vegetables.
- Choose healthier add-ons: go easy on coconut milk, sugar, and toppings that are high in fat and sugar.
- If you’re having it as a snack, keep it to a small portion and avoid eating it too close to another carb-heavy snack.
- For better overall balance across the day, keep your 3 full meals plus 1–2 snacks spaced out, and don’t make every meal rice-based.
Common Filipino dishes
Biko, Suman, Maja Blanca (with glutinous rice), Puto (glutinous rice-based), Bibingka, Palitaw