Eating more rice could help fight obesity, according to a study

Research suggests that eating rice can help prevent obesity.

Experts found that people who followed a Japanese or Asian diet with rice were less likely to be obese than those living in countries where rice consumption was low.

The researchers said that low-carbohydrate diets – which limit rice – were a popular weight-loss strategy in developed countries, but that the effect of rice on obesity was not clear.

They examined the consumption of rice in grams per day per person and calorie intake in 136 countries.

They also examined data on body mass index (BMI).

In the United Kingdom, it has been found that people consume only 19 g of rice a day, less than dozens of other countries, including Canada, Spain and the United States.

The researchers calculated that even a modest increase in rice consumption of 50 g per day and per person could reduce by 1% the global prevalence of obesity (from 650 million adults to 643 ,5000000).

Professor Tomoko Imai of the Doshisha College of Women's Liberal Arts in Kyoto, Japan, who led the research, said, "The associations we have observed suggest that the rate of obesity is low in countries that consume rice as food. basic.

"Therefore, a Japanese food or rice-based diet inspired Asian foods can help prevent obesity.

"Given the growing levels of obesity in the world, it should be recommended to consume more rice to protect against obesity, even in western countries."

Taking advantage of the possible reasons rice can help, Professor Imai said the rice was low in fat, adding, "It is possible that the fiber, nutrients and plant compounds found in whole grains increase the feeling of satiety. and prevent overeating. "

The authors concluded: "The prevalence of obesity was significantly lower in countries with higher rice supply, even after controlling for lifestyle and socio-economic indicators."

Tam Fry, president of the National Forum on Obesity, said, "We have known for centuries that eastern populations tend to be thinner than in the West because the Rice is a staple, but few obesity specialists have been able to understand why.

"This new research is the first to emit the assumption that we could eliminate obesity by eating a modest amount more."

The study was presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Glasgow.