It is believed that resistant starch in rice may cause satiety, however this practice lacks scientific studies and exposes patients to unnecessary risks.
Soaking raw rice can increase the concentration of arsenic in the resulting liquid. Photo: Shutterstock
Through videos on platforms like TikTok, several users have begun to promote the consumption of a homemade drink made from raw rice and water, which promises the same slimming effects as Ozempicthey call it ‘ricezempic’.
According to users, this “natural” alternative can suppress appetite and prolong the feeling of satiety thanks to the resistant starch contained in rice. This type of dietary fiber, according to some studies, can slow down digestion and stabilize blood sugar levels.
Lack of scientific evidence
Despite the promises of social media users, nutritionists and health professionals are skeptical about the effectiveness of ricezempic. According to Lisa Moskovitz, a dietitian interviewed by Healthline, “although resistant starch has certain benefits, such as improving digestion and helping to control glucose levels, its amount in this drink is minimal and its impact on weight loss is negligible.”
Medicines such as OzempicWegovy and Trulicity, which are glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, not only slow digestion but also act on brain centers that regulate appetite and food-related emotions.
Replicating these effects with a simple homemade liquid is practically impossible.
The role of resistant starch
Resistant starch is known for its properties in regulating satiety and preventing fluctuations in blood sugar levels. However, studies have shown that this compound is found in much higher quantities in foods such as legumes, cooked and cooled potatoes, and whole grains.
“The resistant starch content in ricezempic is extremely low,” explains nutritionist Kim Shapira. “It’s preferable to get these types of nutrients from whole food sources, which also provide vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber.”
Health risks
Ricezempic not only lacks a solid scientific basis, but can also pose health risks. One of the greatest dangers is exposure to arsenica toxic heavy metal present in rice.
According to studies, soaking raw rice can increase the concentration of this metal in the resulting liquid, which in the long term could have adverse health effects.
In addition, replacing balanced meals with this drink could reduce the intake of essential nutrients necessary for the proper functioning of the body. According to Shapira, “although resistant starch can be beneficial, it is better to obtain it from whole foods that also offer other nutrients.”
Short-term satiety
While the Ozempic It acts for several days to maintain the feeling of satiety, the effect of ricezempic is ephemeral, lasting only a few hours.
“The quality of satiety provided by this blend is inferior to that of consuming whole foods such as soups or cooked rice, which offer a more complete nutritional profile,” Shapira added.
The ricezempic trend is another reminder that viral remedies on social media are not always safe or effective, and that it is always best to consult with a health professional before engaging in such practices.
Source consulted here.
