Natural Heaven Hearts of Palm Rice vs regular rice. Which Rice Alternative Wins?

If you’re searching for a low-carb rice alternative that still feels like real rice, you’re not alone. In 2026, more people than ever are rethinking traditional rice—and for good reason. Between weight-loss goals, blood sugar balance, and a growing focus on fiber and gut health, rice alternatives have officially gone mainstream. But not all options deliver the same results. 

Let’s check out some rice options - white rice, and hearts of palm rice - to see which one truly wins when it comes to nutrition, taste, and everyday satisfaction. 

Why People Are Replacing Traditional Rice in 2026 

Traditional white rice has been a staple for centuries, but modern eating habits are shifting. Here’s why many people are swapping it out: 

This shift has fueled demand for low-carb rice alternatives, keto rice, and vegetable-based rice substitutes that feel lighter—but still satisfying. 

What Is Hearts of Palm Rice? 

Hearts of palm rice is made from the tender inner core of palm trees, cut and shaped to resemble traditional rice grains. Natural Heaven Hearts of Palm Rice takes this naturally low-carb vegetable and turns it into a rice alternative that’s: 

• Very low in calories 

• Low in net carbs 

• Naturally high in fiber 

• Mild and neutral in taste 

• Surprisingly close to real rice in texture 

Unlike other veggie rice such as cauliflower rice, it doesn’t taste overly vegetal. And unlike white rice, it won’t cause a carb crash after eating. 

Nutrition Comparison: Hearts of Palm Rice vs Traditional Rice 

Nutrition Comparison (Per 2/3 Cup Prepared) 

Source: 
Nutrition values are based on product labels from Walmart and Natural Heaven, adjusted to a 2/3 cup prepared serving where applicable. Label URLs referenced: 

Minute Instant White Rice (Walmart)
Natural Heaven 

How Natural Heaven Hearts of Palm Rice Stacks 

Why this matters: fewer carbs + more fiber = better blood sugar balance, longer fullness, and easier calorie control. 

Which Is Best for Keto & Weight Loss? 

If you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, white rice is automatically out—it’s simply too high in carbs. And for some other veggie rice such as cauliflower rice many people struggle with digestive discomfort or bloating, watery or mushy texture or a strong vegetable taste that limits versatility. 

Natural Heaven Hearts of Palm Rice stands out as the best keto rice because it: 

• Has ultra-low net carbs 

• Feels more filling than cauliflower rice 

• Works in both savory and neutral dishes 

For weight loss, the combination of low calories + higher fiber helps support fullness without overeating 

How to Use Natural Heaven Hearts of Palm Rice in Real Meals 

One of the biggest advantages of Hearts of Palm Rice is how versatile it is: 

• Protein bowls (turkey, salmon, tofu) 

• Stir-fries and fried rice 

• Mexican-style tacos and burrito fillings 

• Prep meals that actually reheat well 

It absorbs sauces beautifully and holds its texture—without turning soggy. 

Final Verdict: Which Rice Alternative Wins? 

If you’re comparing hearts of palm rice vs traditional rice, the answer is clear. Natural Heaven Hearts of Palm Rice is the best choice for: 

• Low-carb and keto lifestyles 

• People focused on fiber and gut health 

• Anyone who wants a rice-like texture without the carb crash 

It delivers the balance modern eaters are looking for: light, satisfying, and easy to enjoy every day.