A component of rice bran oil is the γ-oryzanol, at around 2% of crude oil content. Thought to be
a single compound when initially isolated, γ-oryzanol is now known to be a mixture of steryl and
other triterpenyl esters of ferulic acfryin.Also present are tocopherols and tocotrienols (two types
of vitamin E) and phytosterols.
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.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.
Potential Health Benefits of Rice Bran Oil
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.Side Effects of Rice
Bran Oil:
Increasing the amount of rice bran oil in a diet may cause certain side effects.1 The side effects
of rice bran oil may include:
Flatulence, gas, and stomach discomfort.
It contains omega-6-fatty acids and might increase cancer risk when consumed in high
amounts.
It may have heavy metals like arsenic; whose prolonged exposure may be dangerous to health.
It may lower blood calcium levels causing calcium deficiency.1,
Therefore, you should not use rice bran oil to self-medicate on your own. It is essential to take a
doctor’s advice and have it only if recommended. Various toxicological studies found that when
used in moderation, rice bran oil might be a safe alternative to edible oil.2 However, the
following precautions must be considered:
You should not use crude rice bran oil as it may contain heavy metals and pesticide residues.1,2
If you have stomach ailments, limit the intake of rice bran oil, as it may cause discomfort.1
Calcium-deficient patients must avoid using rice bran oil, as it might further lower blood calcium
levels.1
More research is needed to suggest the safe use of rice bran oil for pregnant and breastfeeding
women. Therefore, they should consult a doctor prior to starting its use.
Take extra precautions while using it for children and older adults. Rice bran oil is a pale yellow,
odourless, nutty-flavoured oil with a sweet taste. It is free from trans-fat and contains
antioxidants like γ-oryzanol, tocotrienols, squalene, tocopherols, etc. The nutrient value of rice
bran oil is as follows:
Nutrients Value
Energy 884 Kcal
Fats 100 g
Iron 0.07 mg
Vitamin K 24.7 µg
Vitamin E 32.3 mg
Rice bran oil has gained a status as a ‘heart-healthy oil’. It has been categorised as healthy
edible oil, possibly due to its following health-benefitting properties.2
It may act as an antioxidant.
It may reduce inflammation.
It may lower blood glucose levels.
It may boost immunity.
It may lower bad cholesterol levels.
It may be hypoallergenic (unlikely to cause allergic reactions).
It may reduce blood pressure.1,2
Potential Uses of Rice Bran Oil for Overall Health:
Rice bran oil may have several advantages due to bioactive antioxidants, which may benefit our
health.2 A few of rice bran oil nutritional benefits are described below:
- Potential uses of rice bran oil for cholesterol
Rice bran oil may have cholesterol-lowering properties due to its unique components, such as
γ-oryzanol, tocotrienols, and mono and poly-unsaturated fatty acids. These bioactive
components may be responsible for reducing bad cholesterol levels by increasing bile excretion.
Rice bran oil bioactives may also reduce fats and lipids and increase good cholesterol levels
(high-density lipoproteins). This may create a balance between good and bad cholesterol, which
might be important for good health.1,2 However, more studies are needed to suggest the
benefits of rice bran oil for human hea
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