A new study published in Risk Analysis highlights potential health risks linked to brown rice consumption, particularly in young children, due to elevated levels of inorganic arsenic.
Key Findings:
Brown rice retains the bran layer, which contains 72–98% more inorganic arsenic than white rice, increasing toxicity risks.
Young children (especially those aged 6–24 months) consume more rice per body weight than adults, making them more vulnerable to arsenic exposure.
Brown rice consumers in this group exceeded safe daily intake levels for inorganic arsenic (0.295 µg/kg bw/day), compared to the safety threshold of 0.21 µg/kg bw/day.
Arsenic levels in US-grown rice were found to be lower than in non-US rice, yet still pose concerns due to consumption rates.
Parboiling and certain cooking methods can reduce arsenic, but these were not factored into the study’s risk assessment.
While brown rice offers nutritional benefits, such as fiber and micronutrients, these may not fully offset the risks associated with higher arsenic levels.
Broader Implications:
The study underscores the need for balanced dietary guidelines, especially for infants and toddlers, and suggests more research to explore how nutrients in brown rice may help detoxify arsenic.
Researchers call for better understanding of rice origin, variety, and processing methods to reduce arsenic exposure risks.
Adults in the US consuming rice in average amounts do not appear to be at significant health risk, according to current data.
Bottom Line:
Brown rice’s reputation as a healthier grain may need reconsideration for young children. Parents and caregivers should be mindful of rice intake in early childhood diets, particularly when brown rice is a staple.
You Might Be Interested In:
-
Medical Debt Pushing Women to Skip Vital Mental Health Care, Experts Warn
-
Clean Water and Sanitation Key to Stopping Cholera Outbreaks, Study Finds
-
Scientists Discover New Cancer Detection Method: Tracking How Cells Move Could Save Lives
