its unsuspected dangers, including an increased risk of cancer, explained

Considered a healthy alternative, brown rice, however, presents unknown health risks. Studies highlight its arsenic content, a potentially carcinogenic contaminant, raising concerns about regular consumption.

Arsenic: the reverse of the brown rice uncovered

For years, the brown rice is presented as a healthy food, often preferred to white rice for its richness in fiber and protein. However, a recent study of Michigan State University questions this reputation.

Published in the journal Risk Analysisthe survey reveals that this type of rice could contain significantly higher levels ofInorganic arsenica particularly toxic substance, compared to its bleached cousin.

The American study which questions our eating habits

The researchers led by the teacher Felicia Wusupported by Christian Scotthave relied on national food consumption data collected from theEnvironmental Protection Agency. They thus highlighted an alarming trend: among American populations consuming rice, the share of inorganic arsenic reached 48 % in brown rice against only 33 % in white.

Globally, these rates even rise to 65 % and 53 % respectively. Another striking fact: the rice absorbs almost ten times more arsenic that other cereals, mainly because it grows in flooded rice field, a medium conducive to the accumulation of this contaminant.

Risk groups and essential shades

In reality, it is mainly young children – and especially those aged under the age of five – who are concerned. Their relative consumption, relating to their body weight, exposes them more. Researchers also point to immigrant Asian communities and precarious populations who consume a lot of rice among the groups to monitor.

To clarify the issue, here are the main risks identified:

• Cancer : Chronic exposure possible in the long term.
• Infantile toxicity: worrying thresholds for toddlers.
• Nutritional dilemma: opposition between food security and beneficial contributions.

Profits and recommendations: should we ban brown rice?

Should we eliminate brown rice from our plates? According to Felicia Wuit would be hasty to draw such a conclusion. As she points out: ” Risk assessment is just a component; We must also consider the nutritional contribution of rice sound. In short, despite its higher contents in arsenic, full rice continues to provide essential elements – fibers or niacin in particular.

This debate highlights an increasing issue: the need for everyone to remain vigilant about the composition of the food consumed, but also to balance health security and nutritional benefits. A subtle balance that deserves reflection rather than a pure and simple rejection of brown rice.