Is rice bran healthy. Rice Bran Oil: Health Benefits, Nutrition, and Potential Risks
Is rice bran oil good for your health. What are the nutritional benefits of rice bran oil. How can rice bran oil impact cholesterol levels. What are the potential risks of consuming rice bran oil.
What is Rice Bran Oil and How is it Produced?
Rice bran oil is a popular cooking oil extracted from the outer layer or husk of rice grains. This versatile oil has gained attention for its potential health benefits and culinary applications. But what exactly is rice bran oil and how is it made?
Rice bran oil is derived from the bran and germ layers of rice kernels. These layers are removed during the milling process that converts brown rice to white rice. The oil is then extracted from this bran layer using solvent extraction or physical pressing methods.
One of the key features of rice bran oil is its high smoke point, typically around 450°F (232°C). This makes it ideal for high-heat cooking methods like stir-frying and deep-frying. The oil’s neutral flavor also allows it to complement a wide range of dishes without overpowering other ingredients.
Where is Rice Bran Oil Commonly Used?
Rice bran oil is particularly popular in various Asian cuisines, especially in countries like Japan, China, and India. Its versatility extends beyond cooking, as it’s also used in cosmetics and as a base oil in some skincare products.
Nutritional Profile of Rice Bran Oil
Understanding the nutritional content of rice bran oil is crucial for evaluating its potential health benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrients found in one tablespoon (15 ml) of rice bran oil:
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 14 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2.7 grams
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.3 grams
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.8 grams
- Vitamin E: 4.39 mg (29% of Daily Value)
- Vitamin K: 4.5 mcg (4% of Daily Value)
Rice bran oil is particularly rich in beneficial unsaturated fats, including both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. These “good” fats have been associated with various health benefits, including improved heart health and reduced inflammation.
Does rice bran oil contain any unique compounds?
Yes, rice bran oil contains several unique compounds that contribute to its potential health benefits. These include:
- Oryzanol: A mixture of antioxidant compounds that may help lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation
- Tocotrienols: A form of vitamin E with potent antioxidant properties
- Phytosterols: Plant compounds that can help lower cholesterol absorption
Potential Health Benefits of Rice Bran Oil
Research has uncovered several potential health benefits associated with the consumption of rice bran oil. Let’s explore some of the most promising findings:
Can rice bran oil help lower cholesterol levels?
Several studies suggest that rice bran oil may have a positive impact on cholesterol levels. A review of multiple studies found that consuming rice bran oil led to significant reductions in total cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. This effect is likely due to the oil’s high content of plant sterols and oryzanol, which can interfere with cholesterol absorption in the intestines.
How does rice bran oil affect blood pressure?
Research indicates that rice bran oil may help lower blood pressure, particularly when used in combination with antihypertensive medications. One study found that a blend of rice bran oil and sesame oil resulted in significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The oil’s high antioxidant content and beneficial fatty acid profile may contribute to these effects.
Can rice bran oil help manage blood sugar levels?
Emerging evidence suggests that rice bran oil may have potential benefits for blood sugar management, particularly in individuals with Type 2 diabetes. A randomized study using a blend of 80% rice bran oil and 20% sesame oil showed significant reductions in both fasting and postprandial glucose levels after four weeks of use. These effects may be attributed to the oil’s ability to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation.
Comparing Rice Bran Oil to Other Cooking Oils
When evaluating the health benefits of rice bran oil, it’s useful to compare it to other commonly used cooking oils. Here’s how rice bran oil stacks up against some popular alternatives:
Oil Type | Smoke Point | Saturated Fat (%) | Monounsaturated Fat (%) | Polyunsaturated Fat (%) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Rice Bran Oil | 450°F (232°C) | 25% | 38% | 37% |
Olive Oil | 375°F (191°C) | 14% | 73% | 11% |
Canola Oil | 400°F (204°C) | 7% | 63% | 28% |
Coconut Oil | 350°F (177°C) | 92% | 6% | 2% |
As we can see, rice bran oil offers a balanced profile of fats and a high smoke point, making it a versatile option for various cooking methods.
Potential Risks and Considerations
While rice bran oil offers numerous potential health benefits, it’s important to consider any possible risks or drawbacks associated with its consumption:
Are there any side effects of consuming rice bran oil?
Rice bran oil is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, as with any dietary change, some individuals may experience mild digestive discomfort when first incorporating rice bran oil into their diet. It’s always advisable to introduce new foods gradually and monitor for any adverse reactions.
Should certain individuals avoid rice bran oil?
People with specific health conditions should exercise caution when considering rice bran oil:
- Low Blood Pressure: Since rice bran oil may lower blood pressure, individuals with hypotension should consult their healthcare provider before adding it to their diet.
- Allergies: Those with rice allergies should avoid rice bran oil, as it may trigger an allergic reaction.
- Medication Interactions: Rice bran oil may interact with certain medications, particularly those for blood pressure or cholesterol. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you’re taking medications.
Incorporating Rice Bran Oil into Your Diet
If you’re interested in adding rice bran oil to your diet, here are some practical ways to incorporate it into your meals:
- Use it for stir-frying: The high smoke point of rice bran oil makes it ideal for high-heat cooking methods like stir-frying.
- Salad dressings: Mix rice bran oil with vinegar or lemon juice for a light, healthy salad dressing.
- Baking: Substitute rice bran oil for other oils in baking recipes for a neutral-flavored, heart-healthy alternative.
- Marinades: Use rice bran oil as a base for marinades to add flavor and moisture to meats and vegetables.
- Sautéing: Use rice bran oil for sautéing vegetables or proteins for a quick, healthy meal.
How much rice bran oil should you consume?
As with all oils, moderation is key. While rice bran oil offers potential health benefits, it’s still a concentrated source of calories. The American Heart Association recommends limiting total fat intake to 20-35% of daily calories, with most of those fats coming from unsaturated sources like rice bran oil. For a 2,000-calorie diet, this translates to about 44-78 grams of total fat per day.
Sustainability and Environmental Considerations
When choosing cooking oils, it’s increasingly important to consider their environmental impact. Rice bran oil presents some interesting sustainability aspects:
Is rice bran oil production sustainable?
Rice bran oil production can be considered relatively sustainable for several reasons:
- By-product Utilization: Rice bran oil is produced from a by-product of rice milling, which would otherwise be discarded or used as animal feed. This helps reduce waste in the rice production process.
- Water Usage: Compared to some other oil crops, rice cultivation typically requires less additional water beyond natural rainfall, particularly in regions where rice is traditionally grown.
- Land Use: Since rice bran is a by-product, its oil production doesn’t require additional land use beyond what’s already allocated for rice cultivation.
However, it’s worth noting that the overall sustainability of rice bran oil depends on the sustainability practices of the rice industry as a whole, which can vary significantly by region and production method.
How does rice bran oil compare to other oils in terms of environmental impact?
When compared to other popular cooking oils, rice bran oil generally fares well in terms of environmental impact:
- Palm Oil: Rice bran oil has a significantly lower environmental impact than palm oil, which is associated with deforestation and habitat loss.
- Olive Oil: While both are considered relatively sustainable, rice bran oil may have a lower water footprint than olive oil in many production scenarios.
- Coconut Oil: Rice bran oil production typically has a lower impact on biodiversity compared to coconut oil, which can lead to monoculture plantations.
It’s important to note that the environmental impact of any oil can vary depending on production methods, transportation, and local ecosystems. Choosing organic and locally produced oils when possible can help minimize environmental impact.
Future Research and Potential Applications
As interest in rice bran oil grows, researchers continue to explore its potential benefits and applications. Some areas of ongoing research include:
What new health benefits of rice bran oil are being studied?
Researchers are investigating several potential health benefits of rice bran oil:
- Cancer Prevention: Some studies suggest that compounds in rice bran oil may have anti-cancer properties, particularly against colon and breast cancer cells. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.
- Neuroprotection: Preliminary research indicates that the antioxidants in rice bran oil might have neuroprotective effects, potentially benefiting brain health and cognitive function.
- Skin Health: The high vitamin E content and antioxidant properties of rice bran oil are being studied for potential benefits in skin care and protection against UV damage.
Are there potential industrial applications for rice bran oil?
Beyond its use in food and cosmetics, rice bran oil is being explored for various industrial applications:
- Biodiesel Production: Rice bran oil’s high smoke point and stability make it a potential candidate for biodiesel production, offering a renewable energy source.
- Pharmaceuticals: The unique compounds found in rice bran oil, such as γ-oryzanol, are being studied for potential use in pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals.
- Natural Preservatives: The antioxidant properties of rice bran oil components are being investigated for use as natural preservatives in food and cosmetic products.
As research continues, we may discover even more benefits and applications for this versatile oil, further enhancing its value in both culinary and industrial contexts.
Is Rice Bran Oil Good for You? Pros and Cons, Nutrition Information, and More
Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors
Reviewed by Christine Mikstas, RD, LD on November 18, 2022
In this Article
- Nutrition Information
- Potential Health Benefits of Rice Bran Oil
- Potential Risks of Rice Bran Oil
Rice bran oil is extracted from the outer bran or husk of rice grains. Because of its high smoke point, it is useful for high-heat cooking and is often used in various cuisines of South and East Asian countries.
In addition to its culinary uses and unique flavor, rice bran oil has a range of health benefits that are supported by research.
One tablespoon of rice bran oil contains:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 14 grams
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Sugar: 0 grams
Rice bran oil is a good source of:
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
Rice bran oil is also an excellent source of poly- and mono-unsaturated fats (the “good fats”). Studies have shown that consuming these unsaturated fats can improve blood cholesterol levels, which can decrease your risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Rice bran oil is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. Research has found a number of potential health benefits to consuming rice bran oil:
Lower Cholesterol
For people with high cholesterol, substituting rice bran oil for other fats in their diet may improve health outcomes. Several studies have shown it to be effective in lowering cholesterol. This effect may be due to the high concentration of Vitamin E in rice bran oil.
Lower Blood Pressure
Rice bran oil can help to lower blood pressure, especially when used in combination with antihypertensive medication. One study reported that a blend of this oil and sesame oil resulted in a significant reduction in blood pressure and cholesterol.
Blood Sugar Management
In addition to lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, rice bran oil can be effective against high blood sugar for people with Type II Diabetes. In a randomized study, a blend of 80 % rice bran oil and 20 % sesame oil showed significant reduction in fasting and postprandial glucose markers (the amount of sugar in your blood after a meal) after 4 weeks.
Oral Health
Rice bran oil may give you better breath when used for oil pulling. Although the practice of oil pulling is traditionally done using sesame oil, rice bran oil was found to be effective in reducing halitosis (bad breath) when used.
Because rice bran oil has such potent ingredients, you should consult with your doctor before taking it or any other supplement. Consider the following risks associated with this oil before adding it to your diet:
Use in Moderation
Rice bran oil is a fat and should be used in moderation. Following the serving suggestions when using it should keep your consumption within a moderate range.
Shelf Life
If your rice bran oil is unrefined, it is best to store it in the refrigerator to preserve its shelf life.
Hypotension
Because rice bran oil may lower blood pressure, people with low blood pressure should speak with their healthcare provider before adding it to their diets.
Top Picks
Today On WebMD
Recommended for You
Eat better and exercise smarter. Sign up for the Food & Fitness newsletter.
- Food & Fitness
By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the WebMD Terms & Conditions & Privacy Policy and understand that I may opt out of WebMD subscriptions at any time.
Top doctors in ,
Find more top doctors on
Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews
Overview
Rice bran comes from the outer layer of rice (Oryza sativa). Rice bran oil is popular as a “healthy oil” in Japan, Asia, and particularly India.
Rice bran oil contains substances that might decrease how much cholesterol the body absorbs. Rice bran might also decrease calcium absorption, which might help prevent certain types of kidney stones from forming.
People use rice bran for high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, athletic performance, and many other purposes, but there is no good scientific evidence to support many of these uses.
Don’t confuse rice bran with rice bran arabinoxylan compound, or other forms of bran such as oat bran and wheat bran.
Uses & Effectiveness ?
Possibly Effective for
- High cholesterol. Taking rice bran or rice bran oil by mouth daily seems to somewhat reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad”) cholesterol. It’s not clear if it affects other types of cholesterol.
Possibly Ineffective for
- Colon cancer, rectal cancer. Eating dietary fiber, such as rice bran, doesn’t seem to reduce the risk of colon or rectal cancer.
There is interest in using rice bran for a number of other purposes, but there isn’t enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.
Side Effects
When taken by mouth: Rice bran is commonly consumed in foods. Rice bran and rice bran oil have been used safely in doses up to 30 grams daily for up to 5 years. Increasing the amount of bran in the diet can cause side effects such as gas and stomach discomfort during the first few weeks.
When applied to the skin: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if rice bran is safe or what the side effects might be.
Special Precautions and Warnings
When taken by mouth: Rice bran is commonly consumed in foods. Rice bran and rice bran oil have been used safely in doses up to 30 grams daily for up to 5 years. Increasing the amount of bran in the diet can cause side effects such as gas and stomach discomfort during the first few weeks.
When applied to the skin: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if rice bran is safe or what the side effects might be.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Rice bran is commonly consumed in foods. But there isn’t enough reliable information to know if it is safe to use in larger amounts as medicine. Stay on the safe side and stick to food amounts.
Children: Rice bran is possibly safe when used appropriately. It has been used in food for infants for up to 6 months with no side effects.
Gastrointestinal (GI) conditions: Don’t use rice bran if you have a digestive tract problem such as ulcers or other stomach disorders. The fiber in rice bran could block your digestive tract.
Interactions ?
We currently have no information for RICE BRAN overview.
Dosing
Rice bran has most often been used by adults in doses of 1-20 grams by mouth daily for up to 5 years. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.
View References
You Might Also Like
View More
CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.
This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.
Rice bran. Properties and benefits of rice bran
Properties of rice bran
Nutritional value and composition |
Vitamins |
Minerals
How much does rice bran cost (average price per 1 kg.)?
Moscow and Moscow region
300 rubles
In our time, many have begun to adhere to a healthy and balanced diet, which includes new products that were not in demand at all before, which include bran. At its core, bran is a production waste or the so-called recyclable, which is obtained in the process of processing grains of cereals. Depending on the initial raw material, bran is divided into several types, which differ in their appearance, useful and nutritional properties.
Currently, the following main types of bran can be found on sale: wheat, rye, oat, barley and rice bran. It is worth noting that many types of bran are used not only as a food product, but also as pet food. It is noteworthy that of all types of bran, rice bran is not very popular among domestic consumers.
This is probably due to the ignorance of buyers about the unique beneficial and nutritional properties of rice bran. A completely different situation has developed in Asian countries, where rice has been considered the main food product from time immemorial. It is not uncommon for connoisseurs of Asian culinary tradition to refer to rice as “Asian” bread. Therefore, it is not surprising that the inhabitants of Asian countries know and actively use the benefits of rice bran for their own benefit.
Benefits of rice bran
Rice bran is a fragment of the shells of rice grains that stand out with a pronounced aroma. Often in the composition of rice bran comes across not only the shell, but also parts of the grains, as well as the pericarp of the plant. The properties of rice bran are similar to other types of product. The benefits of rice bran lie in the composition of the product, which is enriched with a significant amount of useful compounds. For example, the chemical composition of rice bran contains vitamins B, E, K, and PP.
In addition, rice bran is enriched with iron, sodium, selenium, zinc, magnesium, choline and other substances important for human life. It is noteworthy that carbohydrates predominate in the composition of rice bran, which saturate the body with energy, which is necessary for normal human life.
Regular consumption of rice bran helps cleanse the human body of harmful compounds that penetrate from the environment, and also arise in the process of life. Doctors and nutritionists recommend regularly eating rice and other types of bran for everyone without exception.
Rice bran will be of particular benefit to people who suffer from various types of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, as well as the liver and kidneys. Rice bran also helps in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis, diabetes and allergies. Rice bran occupies a special place in a therapeutic diet, the product helps to support the body and saturate it with important biologically active compounds, as well as vitamins.
Rice bran calories 316 kcal
Energy value of rice bran (Proportion of proteins, fats, carbohydrates – bzhu):
Protein: 13.35 g (~53 kcal)
Fat: 20.85 g (~188 kcal)
Carbohydrates: 28.9 g (~116 kcal)
Energy Ratio (b|g|s): 17%|59% |37%
Rice bran recipes
Wild rice and liver roll
Rice with broccoli in omelette
Rice-oatmeal porridge with chicken
Pumpkin porridge with rice
Product proportions. How many grams?
in 1 teaspoon 3 grams
in 1 tablespoon 12 grams
in 1 cup 118 grams
0007 4.171 g
Mono- and disaccharides
0.9 g
Water
6.13 g
Ash
9.98 g
Dietary fiber
21 g
Vitamins
Vitamin B1 (B1)
2. 753 mg
Vitamin B2 (B2)
0.284 mg
Vitamin B5 (B5) 900 03
7.39 mg
Vitamin B6 (B6)
4.07 mg
Vitamin B9 (B9)
63 mcg
Vitamin E (TE) (E (TE))
4.92 mg
Vitamin K (K)
1.9 mcg
Vitamin PP (PP)
33.995 mg
Choline
32.2 mg
Minerals
Iron (Fe)
18.54 mg
Zinc (Zn)
6.04 mg
Copper (Cu)
728 mg
Manganese Mn)
14.21 mg
Selenium (Se)
15.6 µg
Phosphorus (P)
1677 mg
Potassium (K)
1485 mg
Sodium (Na)
5 mg
Magnesium (Mg )
781 mg
Calcium (Ca)
57 mg
Analogs and similar products
Brown rice
Wild Rice (Black Rice)
Rice
Boiled Rice
Views: 20878
Rice bran: useful properties and harm
Rice bran (grain shell) is a waste of flour milling. In the process of grain processing, this product is obtained with different degrees of grinding. In particular, there are two types of bran resulting from grinding: large (coarse) and small (thin).
In Europe, the product, as a valuable food supplement, either gained popularity or was completely excluded from the diet. Despite the fact that bran is rich in protein and other beneficial minerals, many nutritionists have categorically rejected the benefits of this product.
So what is this – rice crop waste? What is more in them: benefit or harm to the body?
Content:
- What is rice bran and how rich is it?
- Product benefits
- Use of rice waste in diets
- Mask for sensitive skin
- Possible harms and contraindications
- Output
What is rice bran and how rich is it?
Rice bran is, in fact, the husk (husk) that appears during the rice cleaning process. The popularity of the product and its use in low-calorie diets raises a logical question about its benefits or possible harm.
In order to draw a reasonable conclusion, it is necessary to consider the chemical composition of the bran. Laboratory studies show that rice husk contains:
- Water.
- Proteins.
- Fats.
- Carbohydrates.
- Sugars.
- Coarse dietary fiber.
- Thiamine (B 1 ).
- Riboflavin (B 2 ).
- Niacin (B 3 ).
- Pantothenic acid (B 5 ).
- Pyridoxine (B 6 ).
- Folic acid (B 9 ).
- Tocopherol (vitamin E).
- Vitamin K.
- Calcium.
- Iron.
- Magnesium.
- Phosphorus.
- Potassium.
- Zinc.
- Inositol.
- Choline.
Calorie content of rice husk is 310-320 Kcal per 100 g of product .
Benefits of the product
Rice bran does not belong to the category of products that saturate the body with energy. But, due to their chemical composition, they have the following therapeutic and prophylactic effect:
- Reduce the need for food , eliminate the feeling of hunger, creating the illusion of satiety.
- Regulate and stabilize the body’s production of insulin .
- Enrich the intestinal microflora with biologically active elements .
- Stimulates intestinal permeability , freeing it from decay products, toxins and toxins.
- Act as natural sorbents.
- Improve the quality of bile and stimulate its outflow.
- Promote the removal of cholesterol from the body.
- Contribute to the acceleration of lipid metabolism.
- Positively affect the production of enzymes necessary for metabolism .
- Strengthen the functions of the liver and kidneys, reducing the load on these organs.
- Cleanse blood vessels and improve blood circulation.
- Reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis.
- Promotes weight loss.
The use of rice waste in diets
Given that bran cannot be an independent product, they are added in small quantities to bakery products, side dishes and salads. It is allowed to use a product previously soaked in fermented milk products (kefir, yogurt, acidophilus).
Extruded (granulated) bran is good to use with hot first courses (soups, borscht, broths). It is perfectly acceptable to use them dry, washed down with tea, compote or jelly.
The only important condition is the observance of the daily intake. A liquid taken at the same time as rice husks will serve well. Swollen bran will become a good natural sorbent that cleanses the body.
Rice grain cleaning product can be safely called budget but very intense “beauty product”. Leading cosmetic companies of the planet use it in the production of their products.
Without an expensive face cleanser, rice bran can be used successfully. Lightly moistened with warm water, they will cleanse the epidermis, acting as a gentle scrub.
This skin cleansing process has its advantages. It not only does not dry the skin, but also softens it, providing a nourishing effect. No wonder in ancient times, when soap was inaccessible to many segments of the population, rice husks were used for bathing.
Powdered bran can be used as a nourishing mask for dry or problematic skin.
Mask for sensitive skin
To do this, a small amount of ground product must be diluted with warm water, milk or any fermented milk product.
The resulting mass should be evenly spread in a thin layer on the previously cleansed face and left for 15-20 minutes . At the end of this time, the mask must be washed off with lukewarm water, thoroughly blot the moisture with a napkin and lubricate the skin with a moisturizer.
Potential harms and contraindications
Rice bran is often used as a food supplement to cleanse the intestines. In addition, the product is often included in the diet of low-calorie diets focused on the process of losing weight.
However, when carrying out medical procedures and compiling a weight loss menu, it should be borne in mind that rice husks can cause an undesirable (side) effect. The action of the product will be negative in the following cases:
- Individual intolerance to the component.
- Violation of the rules and conditions of admission.
- Failure of the functions of the digestive system.
- Chronic pancreatitis in the acute phase.
- Colitis.
- Diarrhea.
- Hemorrhoids.
- A course of drug treatment.
You should not pay attention to the fact that when taking rice bran, you must not exceed the consumption rate. The negative consequences in this case will not be slow to affect your well-being.