Joha Rice for Diabetics: Rice has long been a staple food for many countries, particularly in the Asia Pacific region. Unfortunately, recent years have seen a rise in the prevalence of type 2 diabetes, with as many as 537 million adults aged 20 to 79 years affected in 2021.
The International Diabetes Federation predicts that 783 million people will have diabetes by 2045. To combat this issue, researchers at India’s Institute of Advanced Studies in Science and Technology (IASST) have turned to Joha rice. Joha rice is a scented rice variety grown in India’s remote northeast.
Joha Rice for Diabetics: A Nutraceutical of Choice
It is a short-grain, winter variety. It is believed to prevent diabetes and cardiovascular illnesses. At the IASST, investigations showed the presence of two unsaturated fatty acids, linoleic acid (omega-6) and linolenic (omega-3) acid. These are important for human health and need to be included in diets. Because they are not naturally produced in the human body.
Joha rice for diabetics also proved effective in lowering glucose levels and preventing the onset of diabetes in so-called “in vitro” tests in the laboratory and on rats. Additionally, the rice variety was found to contain valuable antioxidants. It makes it a “nutraceutical of choice” in diabetes management, according to India’s Department of Science and Technology.
The Benefits of Joha Rice
The bioactive compounds found in Joha rice are reported to have antioxidant effects. Control blood sugar levels, and protect the heart. The early onset of type 2 diabetes is reversible through changes in lifestyle and diet. Including the moderation of white rice consumption.
Therefore, popularizing a rice variety with potent anti-diabetic activity,. Such as Joha, could greatly help reduce the prevalence of type 2 diabetes. The rats induced to turn diabetic recovered when put on a diet of Joha rice and showed high levels of insulin in their blood. Improved sugar metabolism, compared to diabetic rats fed on other rice varieties.
Popularizing Joha Rice
Efforts are now underway to increase demand for Joha and encourage farmers to grow more of the variety. Unfortunately, many farmers are not aware of the nutraceutical potential of Joha rice and it is important that government policies provide them with incentives to grow it.
Popularizing Joha rice should not be difficult since it “not only offers a promising option for diabetics but also delights the senses with its captivating aroma and tender texture, making it a culinary treasure”, according to Abdul Fiyaz R, senior scientist at the Indian Council for Agricultural Research.
Given the diabetes burden that India is facing, it is vital that Joha rice and similar food items, known to work against the condition affordably, be popularized and incorporated into dietary interventions. The bioactive compounds found in Joha rice have antioxidant effects, control blood sugar levels, and protect the heart.
Therefore, popularizing a rice variety with potent anti-diabetic activity, such as Joha, could greatly help reduce the prevalence of type 2 diabetes.