White Rice Predisposes to Diabetes But Brown Rice Helps Protect Against It

Having brown rice and wholemeal bread in the diet reduces the risk of diabetes, a new study shows. It has been found that replacing white rice with red rice can reduce the risk of diabetes by 36%.

Brown rice prevents diabetes

Researchers have shown that due to differences in processing and nutrient content, brown and white rice may have different effects on the risk of type 2 diabetes.

To determine the relationship between type of rice intake and risk of diabetes, investigators used data from 3 large prospective cohort studies, all of which included dietary information. In this type of study such as a group of people followed over time and data collection (in this case diet and lifestyle) would be useful in looking at risk factors that may be associated with the occurrence of certain conditions.

However, it does not prove the cause and effect. The study examined nearly 40,000 men and 157,000 women for their diet and lifestyle and their effects on health.

It is a survey-based study, in which individuals are given a dietary frequency questionnaire and followed to see if they develop diabetes. Of all the participants, 10,507 diabetes developed over the next 14 to 22 years, suggesting an absolute risk of over 5%.

It also found that people who ate more than two servings a week of red rice had a 11% lower risk than those who ate less than one meal a month. Researchers estimate that replacing 50 grams of white rice per day with red or cereal rice would reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by 16% or 36%.

This suggests that regular consumption of white rice is associated with a higher risk of diabetes, whereas brown rice is associated with lower risk. Keep in mind that this study does not prove cause and effect. However, people should include more whole grains and brown rice in their diet, rather than refined carbohydrates. This study calls on people to change their eating habits.

In Asian countries when rice is a staple food, people generally prefer white rice over chocolate because of its looks & trends. Whereas in western countries the amount of Rice consumed is not significant causing major changes in their diet & fitness.

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