THE Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) has found three new rice varieties with low glycemic indexes (GI), which may be helpful for controlling blood sugar levels, especially for people with diabetes.
Earlier this year, PhilRice partner International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) found low-GI rice variety NSIC Rc 182 from the results of their advanced in vitro laboratory tests that simulated digestion.
The PhilRice used the NSIC Rc 182 findings as a reference in their own study led by food scientist Marissa Romero, and found three rice varieties with the same GI as NSIC Rc 182 — these are NSIC Rc 472, PSB Rc 10, and Rc 514.
Romero said these varieties are what local farmers usually produce due to their high yield and resilience in the face of diverse weather conditions. “Farmers already prefer these varieties, and our study confirmed that they have relatively low GI,” she said.
Romero said that while white rice is the primary carbohydrate source for most Filipinos, excessive consumption of the staple may contribute to a person’s likelihood to develop diabetes.
“GI measures how fast our food raises blood sugar. The polished white rice with a GI of 70 and above can increase the risk of diabetes,” the food scientist said.
Romero said that low-GI rice would help mitigate that or help people manage their medical condition.
The varieties proved to be healthier options while carrying the taste that Filipinos are used to.
