What Are the Health Benefits of Rice Flour?

Gluten is a protein found is grain products such as wheat and rye, and its avoidance is an essential part of managing celiac disease. Celiac disease is a digestive condition that triggers an immune system response to gluten. Research regarding the effect of gluten for those diagnosed with autism is inconsistent; however, some parents have eliminated gluten from the diets of their autistic children as a precaution. Rice flour is a suitable and healthy replacement for wheat flour if you must maintain a gluten-free diet.

Rice flour is high in protein according to the website Recipe Tips, which notes that flour from brown rice contains a higher level of B vitamins. The primary difference between brown and white rice is the husk -- during milling, removing the husk produces white rice. However, the husk of brown rice is left intact, making it a good selection when considering fiber, vitamins and nutrients such as calcium and zinc.

Dietary fiber is an essential part of any eating plan. Rice contains insoluble fiber, the substance that helps waste material move through the intestines. MayoClinic.com reports that a diet high in fiber will lower cholesterol, improve blood sugar levels and promote regular bowel movements. Brown rice contains more fiber than does white due to the husk. Substituting brown rice flour for wheat may help with weight loss -- a diet rich in fiber helps you feel fuller and reduces hunger. By adding more fiber to your daily meal plan with rice flour, you may lower your risk for developing some medical conditions, such as diverticular disease, colon diseases, type-2 diabetes and hypertension.