Black rice is an ancient grain with even more impressive health benefits than most other closely related rice varieties. Never have white rice again, especially when black rice tastes just as good but has more fiber, vitamins, minerals, and anthocyanins that act as potent anti-oxidants. In some circumstances anthocyanins can even act as anti-inflammatories, inhibit growth, and destroy colon cancer cells. In ancient China, black rice was so revered for ensuring a long and healthy life that it was forbidden for anyone but the emperor to eat. Black rice has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic health conditions such as atherosclerosis.