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Soluble Extract Of Rice Bran

Also known as: soluble rice bran extract, rice bran fiber, rice bran polysaccharides, Soluble Extract of Rice Bran

Overview

The soluble extract of rice bran, derived from *Oryza sativa L.*, is a bioactive-rich substance obtained from the outer layer of rice grains. It contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including γ-oryzanol, tocotrienols, and polyphenols, making it a significant dietary fiber and functional food ingredient. The extract is recognized for its benefits in promoting gut health, improving lipid profiles, and managing metabolic conditions such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and obesity. With moderate to high research maturity, numerous systematic reviews and meta-analyses confirm its effectiveness. The soluble rice bran extract is typically processed for human consumption and offers a rich source of both soluble and insoluble fibers along with antioxidants, which contribute to its health-promoting properties.

Benefits

The primary benefits include significant improvements in lipid profiles, as evidenced by a meta-analysis showing reductions in triglycerides (-15.13 mg/dL), total cholesterol (-11.80 mg/dL), and LDL-C (-15.11 mg/dL) across various studies. Additionally, the soluble extract promotes gut health, enhancing short-chain fatty acid production and modifying gut microbiota composition. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, reducing proinflammatory molecules in animal models of obesity. Such effects are particularly notable in Asian populations, who may experience greater benefit. Clinical significance is underscored by the demonstrable improvements in lipid profiles linked to cardiovascular health, with more pronounced effects noted at higher doses consumed over extended periods.

How it works

The soluble extract of rice bran acts primarily as a prebiotic, fermenting in the gastrointestinal tract to generate short-chain fatty acids, which are crucial for enhancing metabolic health and modulating gut microbiota composition. This extract interacts with the gastrointestinal system, influencing lipid metabolism and inflammation pathways. The bioactive compounds such as γ-oryzanol and tocotrienols possess antioxidant properties that aid in regulating inflammatory pathways and support lipid metabolism. After fermentation, these metabolites exhibit enhanced absorption and biological utilization by the body.

Side effects

Generally considered safe for consumption, the soluble extract of rice bran may cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms for some individuals, including bloating, gas, and digestive discomfort, occurring in more than 5% of users. Rare or uncommon adverse effects are not well-documented, and no severe reactions have been reported in the literature. Caution is advised with concurrent use of other fiber supplements or medications that affect gut motility. Individuals with severe gastrointestinal disorders or those sensitive to high fiber may need to consult healthcare providers prior to use. Special consideration is warranted for pregnant or breastfeeding women and individuals with chronic health conditions, who should seek medical guidance.

Dosage

Research suggests that the effective dosage range for soluble rice bran extract typically falls between 30 g/mL for significant effects on lipid profiles, particularly over durations exceeding four weeks. Although there is no well-defined minimum effective dose, animal studies show benefits at dietary inclusions of 1% to 5%. There is no determined maximum safe dosage; however, excessive fiber intake may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. Timing is not strictly defined, but it is usually recommended to consume fiber supplements alongside meals to mitigate potential digestive side effects. Both soluble and insoluble fiber variants from rice bran offer health benefits, with substantial benefits observed from rice bran oil on lipid profiles.

FAQs

Is rice bran extract safe?

Yes, it is generally considered safe, but mild gastrointestinal symptoms may occur in some individuals.

When should I take rice bran extract?

It can be consumed with meals to minimize digestive discomfort.

What benefits can I expect?

You may experience improved lipid profiles, enhanced gut health, and potential anti-inflammatory effects.

Is rice bran extract a quick fix for health issues?

No, it is best viewed as a long-term dietary supplement contributing to overall health.

Research Sources

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/324929889_The_Effect_of_a_Hydrolyzed_Polysaccharide_Dietary_Supplement_on_Biomarkers_in_Adults_with_Nonalcoholic_Fatty_Liver_Disease – This meta-analysis reviewed 11 RCTs with 572 participants, providing high-quality evidence that rice bran consumption leads to significant reductions in triglyceride and cholesterol levels, effectively improving lipid profiles.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2024.1304045/full – An in vitro study demonstrated that soluble rice bran extract increased the production of short-chain fatty acids and enriched the gut microbiota, supporting claims of its benefits for gut health.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24607304/ – An animal study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of rice bran in obese media, revealing significant reductions in proinflammatory cytokines while also modifying adipocyte size distribution, suggesting potential metabolic benefits.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/340496015_Corrigendum_to_The_Effect_of_a_Hydrolyzed_Polysaccharide_Dietary_Supplement_on_Biomarkers_in_Adults_with_Nonalcoholic_Fatty_Liver_Disease – This corrigendum corroborated findings from the aforementioned meta-analysis, emphasizing the importance of rice bran's role in lipid metabolism among diverse populations.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39796546/ – This study further supports the health benefits of rice bran extract, focusing on prebiotic effects and metabolic improvements in carbohydrate and fat metabolism.