White Rice Consumption Research Articles

Rice and its nutritional significance

Rice is a staple food for millions of populations in the world and originated from a wild grass to a crop. The Asian civilization was built on rice. The rice cultivation changed the lives of hunters into farmers. The domestication of rice in India dates back to the 7th millennium BC. Due to industrialization, the traditional practice of hand pounding was overtaken by rice processing mills, which led to the production of white polished rice, devoid of many nutrients. Studies confirmed that higher consumption of white rice increased the risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease, high in India. In the current scenario, the disease prevalence is increasing, and customers are in search of nutritious foods with potential health benefits. This paper outlines the origin of rice and its nutritional value.

Impact of dietary, lifestyle and sociodemographic factors on calcitonin levels in a healthy population

Calcitonin (CT), a hormone secreted by thyroid parafollicular C cells, plays a role in calcium homeostasis and bone health. Understanding the relationship between CT levels and dietary, sociodemographic, and lifestyle factors is essential for public health and hormonal balance studies. This study encompassed 3323 healthy participants from the Croatian biobank. We utilized principal component analysis (PCA) to reduce food items into dietary patterns. Regression analysis was used to investigate the relationship between CT levels and data collected through questionnaires, accounting for age and sex. CT levels exhibited sex-specific differences, with higher values observed in males. Positive associations were found between CT levels and age, body mass index (BMI), as well as weekly consumption of white and red wine mixed with water. While height and sternal notch-finger length initially correlated positively with CT levels, this relationship reversed upon adjusting for age and sex. Regarding sport activities, CT levels were significantly increased in non-participants compared to occasional sport participants (p = 0.043). Dietary factors yielded intriguing findings, with frequent consumption of butter, animal fat and veal associated with lower CT levels, while higher CT levels were associated with the frequent consumption of white fish, blue fish, pasta, and rice. However, no significant correlation was found between CT levels and bone mineral density (BMD), weight, or body surface area (BSA). This study highlights the complex interplay of dietary, lifestyle, and sociodemographic factors influencing CT levels. These findings suggest that a broad range of factors should be considered in hormonal balance studies, underlining their potential implications for public health.

A novel konjac rice formula with glucomannan and tapioca starch improve postprandial glycemic response – a randomized single-blind clinical trial

PurposeDue to white rice’s association with diabetes and other chronic diseases in many Asian countries, many industries are working to develop high-fiber rice substitutes with similar organoleptic characteristics. Konjac rice (KR) is a promising option, but maintaining its optimal fiber content for health benefits while preserving its ideal sensory profile remains a challenge. This study aims to investigate whether a KR formula, combining tapioca flour and glucomannan gel, possesses similar organoleptic attributes to white rice while preventing glycemic response elevation.Design/methodology/approachIn a six-week randomized single-blind clinical trial, 13 normoweight nondiabetic subjects received varying konjac-based rice and white rice ratios. Blood glucose levels were measured at intervals, and glycemic response was assessed using incremental area under the curve (iAUC). Visual analog scale gauged satiety, and organoleptic properties were evaluated.FindingsSubstituting white rice with pure and partial konjac-based rice significantly lowered postprandial blood sugar levels and glycemic response (p = 0.002). iAUC for pure KR and KR 1:1 was notably lower than white rice (p = 0.002). Subjects reported a sense of fullness comparable to white rice, with no significant organoleptic score differences (p = 0.260).Research limitations/implicationsThe study’s generalizability is compromised due to the limited number of participants, impacting external validity. The examined parameters offer a rough understanding of konjac grain’s impact on postprandial glycemic responses but do not elucidate underlying mechanisms or the duration of its inhibitory effect on glucose absorption. Long-term effects on metabolic, hormonal parameters and the colon’s microbial flora composition and function remain unexplored, constraining comprehensive insights into konjac grain’s extended implications.Practical implicationsThis study introduces a novel KR formula to address the escalating diabetes risks associated with white rice consumption. Substituting white rice with KR significantly reduces postprandial blood sugar levels, highlighting its potential in preventing type 2 diabetes (T2D). Tapioca flour enhances palatability, making KR a viable option. While promising, long-term effectiveness and safety require further research, emphasizing comprehensive lifestyle interventions. The study contributes valuable insights to innovative dietary strategies for prevalent health conditions, emphasizing the need for ongoing efforts in public health.Social implicationsWhite rice, a staple in Asian societies, is linked to a heightened risk of T2D due to increased production and inadequate dietary fiber. This connection contributes to the economic burden on governments through health insurance and lost productivity. Encouraging alternatives rich in fiber can mitigate this burden, offering a socioeconomically beneficial solution to preventable chronic diseases.Originality/valueThis trial demonstrates konjac-based rice’s potential in curbing glycemic responses, hinting at its role in preventing T2D. Glucomannan’s viscosity, satiety induction and potential gut health impact are highlighted. Further research is warranted for long-term effectiveness and safety. These findings contribute to the growing evidence supporting glucomannan as a valuable tool in addressing prevalent health conditions.

Frequency of consumption of selected foods by people with acne vulgaris.

Acne is an inflammatory disease affecting adolescents during puberty, but also adults. Determinants of acne may include genetic predisposition as well as diet. The Western diet is rich in processed products with low nutrient density, resulting in a lack of supply of many essential minerals that are needed for the body to function properly. The aim of this study was to assess the dietary behaviour of people with acne vulgaris and respondents' selfassessment of the severity of acne lesions after consumption of selected products. The study was carried out by means of an online, self-administered questionnaire, a link to which was inserted in group of people struggling with acne on a social network. More than half of the respondents said that acne was present in their parents. Almost 91% of the women surveyed said that acne lesions were exacerbated before menstruation. Respondents were most often treated by a dermatologist. The most common foods consumed by the respondents were milk and milk products and wheat bread. The least frequently consumed products were: sultanas, cornflakes, alcohol and fizzy drinks. Statistical analysis showed a strong strength of association between consumption of white rice, fast food, omega-6-rich oils on the severity of acne lesions, while sultana consumption was very strong correlated. In addition, the study showed an almost certain correlation regarding the consumption of white flour pasta on acne lesions. Statistical analysis showed a relationship between the consumption of white rice, white flour pasta, fast food products, sultanas, oils rich in omega-6 fats and the exacerbation of acne lesions.

Effects of germinated brown rice and germinated black rice on people with type 2 diabetes mellitus combined with dyslipidaemia.

Objective: This study aimed to observe the effects of germinated brown rice and germinated black rice on blood lipid levels, blood glucose levels and lipid metabolism-related enzymes in T2DM patients with dyslipidaemia and to study their effects on the gut microbiome and short-chain fatty acids. Methods: According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 68 subjects were randomly divided into a germinated brown rice group, a germinated black rice group and a white rice group. At the end of the intervention, relevant anthropometric indices, blood biochemistry, and levels of adipokines and lipid metabolism-related enzymes were measured. Faecal samples were collected for 16S rDNA high-throughput sequencing and for an analysis of short-chain fatty acids. Results: After 3 months of intervention with germinated brown rice, germinated black rice or white rice, 21 people in each group completed the intervention as required. At the end of the intervention, the levels of total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in the germinated brown rice group and germinated black rice group were significantly lower than those in the white rice group. The levels of adiponectin (ADPN) and lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) in the germinated brown rice group were significantly higher than those in the white rice group (P < 0.05). At the genus level, interventions with germinated brown rice and germinated black rice significantly increased the relative abundance of Megamonas, Muribaculaceae and Alloprevotella and significantly decreased the relative abundance of Veillonella (P < 0.05). After 3 months of intervention, a significant decrease in waist circumference was observed within the germinated brown rice group compared to that at baseline (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Compared with the consumption of white rice, the consumption of germinated brown rice and germinated black rice can effectively regulate the glucose and lipid metabolism of this population. In addition, interventions involving the use of germinated brown rice and germinated black rice may further improve intestinal diversity and abundance, increase the relative abundance of Megamonas and decrease the relative abundance of Veillonella.

Genetic insights into dietary patterns, liposome mediation, and osteoporosis risk: a Mendelian randomization study.

This study examines the indirect causal relationships between dietary habits and osteoporosis, mediated through liposomes, utilizing a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach. The research leverages genetic variations as instrumental variables to explore the genetic influences on dietary habits, liposomes, and osteoporosis, aiming to unravel the complex interplay between diet, lipid metabolism, and bone health. The study utilized genome-wide association studies (GWAS) data for liposomes from Finnish individuals and osteoporosis-related data, alongside dietary factors from the OpenGWAS database. Instrumental variables were selected based on genetic variants associated with these factors, using a strict significance level and linkage disequilibrium threshold. Statistical analysis employed the Inverse Variance Weighted method, weighted median, and mode-based methods within the R environment, complemented by sensitivity analyses to ensure the robustness of the causal inferences. Findings revealed significant causal relationships between specific dietary components (white rice, cereal, and non-oily fish) and osteoporosis risk, both directly and mediated through changes in liposome levels. Notably, white rice consumption was associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis, while cereal and non-oily fish intake showed protective effects. Further, certain liposomes were identified as mediators in these relationships, suggesting a link between diet, lipid profiles, and bone health. The study highlights the significant impact of dietary habits on osteoporosis risk, mediated through liposomes. These findings underscore the importance of considering lipidomic profiles in dietary guidance and suggest potential targets for preventing osteoporosis through nutritional interventions.

Effects of multigrain rice and white rice on periodontitis: an analysis using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2012-2015.

Numerous studies have investigated the efficacy of whole grains; however, research on multigrain remains limited. Grains exhibit combined positive effects against various diseases. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of multigrain and white rice consumption on periodontitis. We analyzed data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey V-3 and VI, collected between 2012 and 2015, which included 12,450 patients (4,859 male and 7,591 female) aged 19-64 years. The World Health Organization's Community Periodontal Index (CPI) was utilized to assess the presence of periodontitis, with periodontitis defined as a CPI index score of ≥3. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed after adjusting for potential confounding variables. The group that consumed only multigrain rice was less likely to have periodontitis than the group that consumed only white rice (odds ratio [OR], 0.80; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.69 to 0.93). When stratified by sex, the risk of periodontitis demonstrated a 24% decrease in female who consumed only multigrain rice (OR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.62 to 0.93). A similar result was observed in the age group of 40-64 years (OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.71 to 0.99). In the diabetes stratification model, the normal group that consumed only multigrain rice exhibited a 25% decrease in the odds of periodontitis (OR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.62 to 0.91). Our findings suggest that the prevalence of periodontitis may vary depending on the type of rice consumed.

The association between the risk of diabetes and white rice consumption in China: Existing knowledge and new research directions from the crop perspective

The association between the risk of diabetes and white rice consumption in China: Existing knowledge and new research directions from the crop perspective

Antidiabetic properties of analog rice from local raw materials: a systematic review

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a common disease, where about 90% of Indonesians suffer from high white rice consumption. According to various reports, analog rice from many raw materials has benefits for T2DM. This review aimed to identify nutritional content that can be found in various local raw materials for T2DM. In addition, this review explained the antidiabetic effects and mechanisms of the nutritional content. PRISMA guidelines were utilized as the basis of this systematic review. Relevant and related studies were determined by databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Garuda. The identification process in those databases resulted in 284 articles, with only 56 articles included based on the final paper criteria. The primary keywords for the identification process include analog rice, T2DM, antidiabetic, glycemic index (GI), and fiber. Meanwhile, the secondary keywords are based on the review's local raw materials, such as purple yam, corn, banana, sorghum, and cassava. As a result, studies found nutritional compounds with antidiabetic properties inside analog rice made from different local raw materials. which each of them has different mechanisms to overcome T2DM. Therefore, the consumption of analog rice from purple yam, corn, banana, sorghum, and cassava has the potential to prevent T2DM.

White Rice Consumption and Risk for Colorectal Cancer among Japanese Americans: The Multiethnic Cohort Study.

White rice is a staple food for Japanese, a population at high risk for colorectal cancer (CRC). We investigated the association between white rice intake and CRC among Japanese Americans in the Multiethnic Cohort (MEC) study. The Multiethnic Cohort Study is a prospective study established in Hawaii and California in 1993-1996. Usual dietary intake was assessed by a validated quantitative food frequency questionnaire at baseline. Cox proportional hazards models were used to compute hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for quartiles of intake and to perform trend tests across sex-specific quartiles with adjustment for relevant confounders. We identified 1,553 invasive CRC cases among 49,136 Japanese Americans (23,595 men and 25,541 women) during a mean follow-up of 19 years. White rice consumption was not associated with overall CRC incidence in men (p-trend = 0.11) or women (p-trend = 0.56). After excluding participants with a history of diabetes, the inverse associations were significant for CRC (p-trend = 0.03, HR for quartile 4 (Q4) vs. 1 = 0.81; 95% CI: 0.64-1.03) and tumors of the distal colon (p-trend = 0.006, HR for Q4 vs. Q1: 0.66; 0.44-0.99) among men but not women. White rice consumption was not associated with an increased risk of overall CRC among Japanese Americans. An inverse association was observed with risk of CRC and distal colon cancer in men without a history of diabetes.

Structural changes of starch under different milling degrees affect the cooking and textural properties of rice

A long-term consumption of white rice increases the risk of T2D. Finding an appropriate milling degree (MD) of rice balancing nutrition and palatability benefits public health. This study investigated effects of MD-0 s, 5 s, 60 s on morphological, cooking and textural properties of rice. Texture profile analysis showed that milling decreased hardness, while increased adhesiveness of rice. SEM images showed that milling induced notches and structural damage, which facilitated gelatinization of rice determined by DSC. Leached starch was further analyzed by size exclusion chromatography and chain-length distribution. Pearson correlation analysis revealed that milling induced more leached shot-chain amylose and long-chain amylopectin, which decreased hardness and increased adhesiveness of cooked rice. Collectively, milling-induced changes of starch gelatinization and fine structure of leached starch were decisive factors of rice texture. Moderate processing improved the texture of brown rice and maintained nutrients. This would provide guidance for the health industry of whole grains.

Dietary Management of Ulcerative Colitis: Case Report

Genetic makeup, gut microorganisms, autoimmunity and environmental factors are the major risk factors of ulcerative colitis; an inflammatory bowel disease. Because of its severe effects on nutritional status, this case was taken with an aim to improve the nutritional status; with dietary management. An 18 years old adolescent girl was presented to medicine ward of Sheikh Zayed Hospital Lahore with diagnosed ulcerative colitis and presently, she had the complaint of loose stools, nausea/vomiting, decreased appetite and micronutrient deficiencies. Patient’s regimen was formulated on the basis of all presenting complaints to overcome the worsening symptoms and to improve her nutritional status. Planned regimen helped patient in obtaining satisfactory results, her baseline markers and symptoms were compared with her latest ones for proper evaluation. In current case report, consumption of white bread, rice and tapioca pearls was recommended from bread and cereals and the consumption of whole grain or bran products was severely restricted. Use of fibrous vegetables or leafy vegetables was also restricted and the consumption of starchy vegetables was recommended to the patients from the vegetables group. Consumption of fruits without peel was recommended to patient; preferably to consume banana and apple sauce to prevent aggravation in gastrointestinal symptoms whereas the consumption of fruits with high fiber content was restricted. In current case study consumption of lactose free milk and yogurt was recommended to patient whereas consumption of lactose containing milk and milk products was restricted. Dietary management played a very significant role on her nutritional status; thus proper medical nutritional therapy along with lifestyle modification can help in managing ulcerative colitis.

Differences in dietary patterns related to metabolic health by gut microbial enterotypes of Korean adults.

Diet has a profound impact on the progression of metabolic syndrome (MetS) into various diseases. The gut microbiota could modulate the effect of diet on metabolic health. We examined whether dietary patterns related to MetS differed according to gut microbial enterotypes among 348 Korean adults aged 18-60 years recruited between 2018∼2021 in a cross-sectional study. The enterotype of each participant was identified based on 16S rRNA gut microbiota data. The main dietary pattern predicting MetS (MetS-DP) of each enterotype was derived using reduced-rank regression (RRR) models. In the RRR models, 27 food group intakes assessed by a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire and MetS prediction markers including triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL) ratio and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were used as predictor and response variables, respectively. The MetS-DP extracted in Bacteroides enterotype (B-type) was characterized by high consumption of refined white rice and low consumption of eggs, vegetables, and mushrooms. The MetS-DP derived among Prevotella enterotype (P-type) was characterized by a high intake of sugary food and low intakes of bread, fermented legumes, and fermented vegetables. The MetS-DP of B-type was positively associated with metabolic unhealthy status (OR T3 vs. T1 = 3.5; 95% CI = 1.5-8.2), comparing the highest tertile to the lowest tertile. Although it was not significantly associated with overall metabolic unhealthy status, the MetS-DP of P-type was positively associated with hyperglycemia risk (OR T3 vs. T1 = 6.2; 95% CI = 1.6-24.3). These results suggest that MetS-DP may differ according to the gut microbial enterotype of each individual. If such associations are found to be causal, personalized nutrition guidelines based on the enterotypes could be recommended to prevent MetS.

Nutrigenomic Effects of White Rice and Brown Rice on the Pathogenesis of Metabolic Disorders in a Fruit Fly Model.

Consumption of white rice (WR) has been shown to predispose individuals to metabolic disorders. However, brown rice (BR), which is relatively richer in bioactive compounds, possesses anti-glycaemic and antioxidant effects. In this study, fifteen cultivars of paddy rice that are predominantly consumed in North West Nigeria were analysed for their nutritional composition, bioactive contents and effects on metabolic outcomes in a fruit fly model. Gene expression analyses were conducted on the whole fly, targeting dPEPCK, dIRS, and dACC. The protein, carbohydrate, and fibre contents and bioactives of all BR cultivars were significantly different (p < 0.05) from the WR cultivars. Moreover, it was demonstrated that the glucose and trehalose levels were significantly higher (p < 0.05), while glycogen was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in the WR groups compared to the BR groups. Similarly, the expression of dACC and dPEPCK was upregulated, while that of dIRS was downregulated in the WR groups compared to the BR groups. Sex differences (p < 0.05) were observed in the WR groups in relation to the nutrigenomic effects. Our findings confirm metabolic perturbations in fruit flies following consumption of WR via distortion of insulin signalling and activation of glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis. BR prevented these metabolic changes possibly due to its richer nutritional composition.

The prevalence and associated risk factors of pre-diabetes and diabetes among adults in the Batticaloa District, Sri Lanka

Introduction: The prevalence of pre-diabetes and diabetes in Sri Lanka has gradually increased over the last few decades. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors of pre-diabetes and diabetes among adults in randomly selected Divisional Secretariat divisions in Batticaloa district, Sri Lanka. Methods: A cross-sectional community-based descriptive study was conducted among 582 adults aged ≥ 18 years. A pre-tested and validated interviewer administrated questionnaire was used and a blood sample was obtained to assess the glycosylated hemoglobin level. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v 20. Results: Nearly 78% of them were females and mean age of the participants was 50.5 (SD±13.2) years. Pre-diabetes plus diabetes (HbA c ≥ 5.7%) was observed among 63% (95% CI = 33.0 to 41.0). The overall 1 prevalence of pre-diabetes and diabetes was 34.2% (95% CI = 30.3 to 38.2) and 28.9% (95% CI = 25.2 to 32.8) respectively. The mean BMI of the participants was significantly higher among pre-diabetes and diabetes category (dysglycaemia) when compared to the normal category (M = 1.81, 95% CI = 1.01 to 3.01, p = 0.001). Age ≥ 50 years (AOR = 5.88, 95% CI = 2.99 to 11.55), overweight/obesity (AOR = 2.43, 95% CI = 1.18 to 4.97), consumption of white rice (AOR = 2.77, 95% CI = 1.20 to 4.29), and family history of diabetes (AOR = 2.95, 95% CI = 1.51 to 5.77) were found to be the risk factors for dysglycaemia (HbA c of ≥ 5.7%) in the binary logistic 1 regression model. Conclusions and recommendations: The prevalence of pre-diabetes and diabetes was high in the Batticaloa district. Promotion of health awareness on risk factors for pre-diabetes; weight reduction and healthy lifestyles are necessary. Furthermore, screening programs are needed to detect pre-diabetes and more of the undiagnosed diabetes cases.

Comparison of Glycemic Response to Carbohydrate Meals without or with a Plant-Based Formula of Kidney Bean Extract, White Mulberry Leaf Extract, and Green Coffee Extract in Individuals with Abdominal Obesity.

Due to the rising prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes, a strategy that can positively influence diet quality in a simple way is being explored, since a low glycemic index (GI) diet is advised in the dietoprophylaxis and diet therapy of diabetes. Methods: Twenty-three women with abdominal obesity participated in the study. The postprandial glycemic response and glycemic index were determined after three carbohydrate meals (noodle soup, white rice, strawberry sorbet) without or with the addition of a plant-base supplement (extracts of kidney bean, white mulberry leaf, and green coffee) with a potentially hypoglycemic effect. For two products (instant noodle soup and white rice), the addition of the plant supplement resulted in a reduction in glicemic iAUC values (respectively, by: 17.1%, p = 0.005 and 5.3%; p = 0.03; 40.6%, p = 0.004 and 5.3%, p = 0.019). However, this effect was not observed for strawberry sorbet. The blood glucose concentrations 30 min after the consumption of instant noodle soup and white rice with the plant-based formula addition significantly affected the GI value of tested meals (p = 0.0086, r = 0.53; p = 0.0096, r = 0.53), which may indicate the effect of this plant supplement on enterohormone and/or insulin secretion. Conclusion: A formula containing kidney bean, white mulberry leaves, and green coffee extracts may therefore be a notable factor in lowering postprandial glycemia and the GI of carbohydrate foods. However, further research is needed to determine for which food groups and meals its use may be most effective.

Performance and Prospects of Mobile Rice Mill Unit

Rice milling is one of the important steps in post-harvest operations to get good quality white rice. As an innovation in improving customer service, a mobile rice mill unit (MRMU) has recently been operated in various rice-producing areas. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance and prospects of MRMU based on technical and economic analysis. The research was conducted in East Lampung Regency, Lampung, Indonesia, by observing three MRMUs. Each mill was observed for three working days to obtain MRMU performance data, namely grain quality, milled yield, working time, fuel consumption, working capacity, and quality of white rice produced. Other information includes machine price, the machine age, estimated economic life, investment, interest rate, fuel consumption, operator wage, milling charge, and repair and maintenance costs. Results showed that MRMU had an actual capacity between 63.29–98.82 kg/hour with a milled yield between 60.41–64.96%. The white rice produced has a proportion of head rice 58.26–61.42%, with a whiteness index less than the SNI for rice quality standards. The unit cost of the rice milling process using MRMU was an average of 457.91 IDR/kg. At a milling charge of 666.67 IDR/kg, the operation of MRMU is economically feasible at an annual working hour higher than 1000 h. In addition, the MRMU operation was not economically acceptable at a milling charge of 500 IDR/kg. With the rapid growth in the rice milling numbers, an unbiased regulation is required to avoid unhealthy competition among the MRMU enterprises.

The Effects of Adding Gellan Gum to White Rice on the Glycemic, Gastrointestinal and Appetitive Responses: A Randomised, Controlled, Crossover Study

Abstract Objectives Starchy foods are main sources of carbohydrates, and their digestibility affects the postprandial metabolic responses, which in the long term may be associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Addition of food hydrocolloids such as gellan gum (GG) to jasmine rice reduced its starch digestibility in-vitro. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of adding GG to jasmine rice on postprandial glycemic, gastrointestinal and appetitive responses in humans. Methods 12 healthy adults participated in a randomised, controlled, crossover study. They consumed an isoenergetic meal of jasmine rice cooked with and without 3%(weight over dry rice weight) gellan gum. Blood glucose level was measured using finger prick method. Stomach volume using (MRI) and appetite questionnaires were collected at fasting baseline and postprandially for 120 min. Results Blood glucose incremental area under the curve (iAUC) was significantly lower for gellan gum, being 160 ± 19 mmol/L.min for control rice and 92 ± 19 mmol/L.min for the rice with gellan gum, P &amp;lt; 0.001. the AUC for stomach meal volumes with time were moderately lower for gellan gum 30,194 ± 1077ml.min compared to control rice 32,340 ± 1831 ml.min, with the differences being not statistically significant (P = 0.3959). The AUC for composite appetite scores for gellan gun (5729 ± 493 mm.min) was lower compared to rice control (6076 ± 584mm.min), with the difference being not statistically significant (P = 0.2666) Conclusions The addition of gellan gum to jasmine rice during cooking was effective in reducing glycemic responses. This is a simple and inexpensive modification of rice cooking process. If confirmed it could provide an effective intervention to help reducing glycemic responses following white rice consumption in humans. Funding Sources This research was funded by Saudi Ministry of Education and by the NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre.

Infantile thiamine deficiency in South and Southeast Asia: An age-old problem needing new solutions.

Infantile beriberi, a potentially fatal disorder caused by thiamine deficiency, is often viewed as a disease confined to history in regions of the world with predominant white rice consumption. Recent case reports have, however, highlighted the persistence of thiamine deficiency as a cause of infant mortality in South and Southeast Asia. Low infant thiamine status and incidence of beriberi is attributable to maternal thiamine deficiency and insufficient breast milk thiamine. Poor dietary diversity, food preparation and cooking practices and traditional post‐partum food restrictions likely play a role in these high‐risk regions. Given the contribution of thiamine deficiency to infant mortality and emerging evidence of long‐lasting neurodevelopmental deficits of severe and even subclinical deficiency in early life, public health strategies to prevent thiamine deficiency are urgently needed. However, efforts are hampered by uncertainties surrounding the identification and assessment of thiamine deficiency, due to the broad non‐specific clinical manifestations, commonly referred to as thiamine deficiency disorders (TDD), that overlap with other conditions resulting in frequent misdiagnosis and missed treatment opportunities, and secondly the lack of readily available and agreed upon biomarker analysis and cut‐off thresholds. This review will discuss the key challenges and limitations in the current understanding of TDD and explore how ongoing initiatives plan to fill persistent knowledge gaps, namely in the development of a standardised case definition to help more accurately diagnose and treat TDD in low‐resource settings. Given more attention and ensuring greater recognition of TDD will support the design and implementation of treatment and prevention programmes, and ensure beriberi can truly be considered ‘the forgotten disease of Asia’.

In Vitro Glycemic Response of Indigenous Pigmented Rice Cultivars from South India and Influence of Different Carbohydrate Components

Staple diet patterns such as white rice consumption play an important part in the occurrence of chronic lifestyle-related disease like diabetes. This study intended to identify pigmented rice cultivars from India as an alternative to white rice. Nine carbohydrate components were quantified in six red and two black pigmented rice varieties. In vitro starch digestibility was also analyzed and the predicted glycemic index (pGI) was estimated. The relationship between the carbohydrate components and the pGI of the rice varieties was analyzed. The rice varieties, Kattuyanam and Chennangi exhibited high levels of insoluble dietary fibre, total dietary fibre and amylose. High soluble dietary fibre contents were observed in Poonghar and Aruvadam kuruvai. The levels of resistant starch and slowly digestible starch were found to be the highest in Karupakavuni. The results indicated Kattuyanam, Chennangi, Karungkuruvai, and Poonghar to be low pGI rice varieties (&lt; 55). The three varieties, Kesari, Karupakavuni, and Aruvadam kuruvai were categorized under the medium pGI category (56-69). Mapillai samba had a high pGI of 70 which could be due to processing (partially milled and parboiled), but had significantly lower pGI than the white rice, Sona masuri (GI – 76). The dietary fibre components, resistant starch, slowly digestible starch, and the amylose content were negatively correlated with the pGI. Among these components, the insoluble dietary fibre, total dietary fibre, and resistant starch with significantly high (p ≤0.01) correlation were found to be the major determining factors of pGI in the studied pigmented rice cultivars. The inclusion of the identified pigmented rice varieties with low to medium glycemic response in the diet could become a key role in the dietary management of diabetes, especially among the rice-eating population.