Who should not eat brown rice?

Mar 03, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yu Yongchao

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, individuals with weak gastrointestinal function, kidney disease patients, diabetes patients, anemic individuals, pregnant women, and lactating women should avoid eating brown rice. Brown rice has a relatively hard texture and is rich in dietary fiber, making it difficult to digest. Consuming brown rice may increase the gastrointestinal burden in individuals with weak digestive systems, potentially causing discomfort such as abdominal distension and pain.

Generally, individuals with weak gastrointestinal function, kidney disease patients, diabetes patients, anemic individuals, pregnant women, and lactating mothers should not consume brown rice. Details are as follows:

1. Individuals with Weak Gastrointestinal Function

Brown rice has a hard texture and is rich in dietary fiber, making it difficult to digest. Consumption by individuals with weak gastrointestinal function may increase the gastrointestinal burden, leading to discomfort symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain.

2. Kidney Disease Patients

Brown rice contains relatively high levels of protein, potassium, phosphorus, and other components that require metabolism and excretion by the kidneys. Consuming brown rice may increase the burden on the kidneys for patients with kidney disease, potentially worsening their condition.

3. Diabetes Patients

Although brown rice has a relatively low glycemic index, it still contains high levels of carbohydrates, which can elevate blood sugar levels after consumption. Diabetic patients need to control their carbohydrate intake; therefore, they should consume brown rice cautiously.

4. Anemic Individuals

Oxalic acid in brown rice may interfere with iron absorption, and iron is an essential element for hemoglobin synthesis. Consumption of brown rice by anemic individuals might hinder iron absorption, which is unfavorable for improving anemia.

5. Pregnant and Lactating Women

Brown rice contains some anti-nutritional substances, such as phytic acid, excessive intake of which may affect the absorption and utilization of certain nutrients. Pregnant and lactating women require additional nutrients to support fetal and infant development; therefore, they should consume brown rice in moderation and adjust their dietary structure according to medical advice.

Healthy individuals should follow the principle of moderate consumption of brown rice to avoid excessive intake that may cause bodily discomfort.

View All

Can cooked brown rice be eaten after being frozen for a month?

In general, whether cooked brown rice that has been frozen for one month is still edible depends on the freezing method and storage conditions. It can be consumed if properly sealed and not spoiled, but should not be eaten if stored improperly or if spoilage has occurred. It is recommended to consume frozen cooked brown rice within 1–2 months. Before eating, it should be thoroughly reheated until fully hot. If any abnormalities are observed, the rice should be discarded immediately to ensure food safety.

View Full Answer

What should people with high blood lipids pay attention to in their diet?

People with high blood lipid levels should include more whole grains, high-quality protein, vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats in their diet. A well-balanced diet can help reduce blood lipid production and support the regulation of lipid levels. If lipid levels remain uncontrolled after dietary adjustments or if physical discomfort occurs, prompt medical consultation is recommended. Whole grains: such as oats, brown rice, quinoa, etc.