Just 3 spoonfuls of gym diet staple could raise risk of brain damage and CANCER
Eating just three spoonfuls of brown rice every week could raise your risk of brain damage and cancer, a report suggests.
Researchers at Healthy Babies, Bright Futures — a pressure group for infant health — tested more than 200 samples of rice bought from popular grocers like Trader Joe's, Whole Foods and Safeway.
Each was tested for inorganic arsenic, a more toxic form of the element linked to a higher risk of neurodevelopmental delay, cancer and heart problems.
All rice types tested — brown, white, basmati, sushi and jasmine — were found to contain the toxic substance, but levels were highest in brown rice on average.
An uncooked brown rice brand sold by major grocer Smart and Final was found to have the highest levels of inorganic arsenic at 201 micrograms per kilogram.
The findings suggest that for the average adult, eating just two-and-a-half tablespoons per day would lead someone to exceed their maximum safe levels set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The USA Rice Federation, which represents rice growers, noted that arsenic in food was 'alarming' but argued there was no public safety issue.
This is likely because cooking rice in water removes up to 66 percent of the arsenic they contain, while washing them two to four times in tap water can remove up to 84 percent of arsenic present.
Nearly all the samples were found to contain three other heavy metals linked to neurodevelopmental delay — lead, cadmium and mercury — but at much lower levels.
The EPA has set a recommended limit of exposure to inorganic arsenic at 0.06 micrograms per kilogram of bodyweight, or 4.8micrograms per day for the average US adult who weighs 176lbs (80kg).
For comparison, the uncooked brown rice contained 201 micrograms of inorganic arsenic per kilogram — more than 40 times higher than the recommended daily limit.
It means that to stay within the safe limit, an adult could eat no more than 23.9 grams of this rice per day — roughly three tablespoons of uncooked rice.
The EPA's limit was set based on studies that showed the minimum safe level to avoid heart disease or diabetes.
Inorganic arsenic can contribute to the development of heart disease via causing inflammation within the heart and blood vessels, studies suggest. Research has also indicated that it raises the risk of suffering from cancer, with the EPA considering the element a 'human carcinogen'.
Inorganic arsenic differs from organic arsenic because it is more likely to be absorbed into cells, where it can cause damage.
About three-quarters of the arsenic found in the rice products were inorganic, though levels varied depending on the product.
Overall across all brands tested, the researchers found that uncooked rice contained about 85 micrograms of arsenic per kilogram.
The researchers also tested 66 samples of rice alternatives, such as couscous, quinoa and faro, finding the levels of heavy metals in these were 69 percent lower on average.
All the rice samples tested in the research were uncooked, with the team noting that cooking rice in water would reduce heavy metal levels.
This is because up to 66 percent of arsenic leaches out of the grains when they are cooked in boiling water and the water is drained away, according to a 2019 study.
An additional 13 to 84 percent of arsenic can be removed from rice by washing it before cooking.
The report's authors recommend cooking rice in a pot with six to ten cups of water per cup of rice, to remove the most arsenic.
The USA Rice Federation said: 'We know that arsenic in food is alarming for many consumers and that you may have questions,' a spokesperson said.
'And while we do not agree that there is a public health safety issue as a result of trace amounts of arsenic in rice, we will continue to work with the FDA to ensure the US rice supply meets any threshold established.'
For the report, researchers purchased more than 200 rice containers from 20 major metro areas across the US — including New York, Los Angeles and Washington DC.
Overall, brown rice contained the most arsenic with an average of 130 micrograms per kilogram.
The second highest levels were detected in Arborio, or risotto, rice from Italy, which contained about 100 micrograms of arsenic.
White rice had the third highest level, at just below 100 micrograms per kilogram, followed by Jasmine rice from Thailand, at about 80 micrograms.
Indian basmati rice and sushi rice grown in California had the lowest levels of the rice tested on average at about 60 micrograms.
Roughly three-quarters of the arsenic detected in all the rice brands was inorganic, the report suggests.
As part of the research, the organization also tested 66 samples of nine alternative grains like quinoa, faro and barley.
These were found to contain 33 micrograms per kilogram of arsenic on average, well below the levels in the average rice.
Results also showed they contained 69 percent less heavy metal contamination than rice, on average, making them safer substitutes.
The researchers indicated these foods could be better to eat, but noted they were also much more expensive.
As a compromise, they suggested people should try to eat rice with lower levels of arsenic — such as California-grown, Thai jasmine and Indian basmati rice.
The highest levels of arsenic were detected in brown and white rice grown in Southeast US or labeled simply as 'USA' and in Arborio rice from Italy.
A saffron-seasoned rice was also found to contain lead levels up to 32 times higher than the average for other samples.
Rice is one of the most popular grains in the US, consumed by more than 257.7million people with the country eating 4.9million metric tons per year — equivalent to about 15 Empire State buildings.
But it tends to contain more heavy metals because it is grown in water-logged paddies, where it can easily absorb them from its surroundings.
Arsenic is a naturally occurring element found in the Earth's crust, that can exist in both organic and inorganic forms. Scientists are more concerned about inorganic arsenic because this is more readily absorbed into cells, where it can cause damage.
It can be released into the environment through mining and smelting metals, or via pesticides, burning coal and incinerating waste.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Mail
an hour ago
- Daily Mail
Doctor lifts lid on the supplement he'd never take as it can raise risk of death
One popular daily supplement could be putting people at an increased risk of liver failure, bone problems and bleeding disorders, an expert has warned. Taking an 'all-in-one' multivitamin every day may even raise mortality risk, UK-based general practitioner Dr Asif Ahmed said. In an Instagram video, he explained: 'There is only one supplement that I would never take as a doctor. Lots of people still take it, despite studies showing it can increase your mortality rate - this is any multivitamin supplement.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dr Asif Ahmed (MBBS, MRCGP, BSc) (@dra_says) It comes as a study by scientists from the National Cancer Institute in Maryland last summer, found that taking a daily multivitamin was associated with a four per cent increased risk of death over the course of the 20-year study. The researchers found no evidence that the vitamin pills served any benefit for prolonging life. Dr Ahmed added: 'The vast majority of people do not need an all-in-one multivitamin. 'They often have more than 100 per cent of the recommended daily allowances for all your vitamins and minerals which can be dangerous.' The average male adult needs around 700 micrograms (µg) of vitamin A a day, and women 600µg. But some multivitamins sold on the high street can contain a much higher dose at 800µg per tablet. Unlike other supplements that are difficult to overdose on, as excess comes out in your urine, multivitamins containing higher levels of vitamin A and vitamin K could also remain in the body as they're fat-soluble. Dr Ahmed said: 'For things like vitamin A and vitamin K which are fat-soluble it can be quite dangerous and potentially in the long term can lead to liver failure, bone problems, and even bleeding and blood clot disorders.' Fat-soluble vitamins can accumulate in the body over time in the liver and fatty tissue. If consumed in excess, however, this can weaken the bones, and damage the kidney and the heart. Taking vitamin D at high doses for an extended period of time can also cause complications like hypercalcemia. This is where excess calcium is deposited into the bloodstream, increasing the risk of heart and kidney disease. Dr Ahmed advised people who are worried they are not getting enough essential vitamins and minerals to take one specific supplement for their needs. For example, vitamin D supplements to boost bone health. He has also said a healthy balanced diet that includes lots of oily fish, fortified foods and fiber is the best way to get all the essential vitamins the body needs: 'One thing that is fantastic that I take every day is a seed mixture. 'I get the milled version, where they take out the hard shell, to help with digestion and some say it can also increase the nutrient absorption. 'This is super high in fiber and protein and it's got so many minerals and vitamins in it as well. It's a food not a supplement so this is probably the best way to make sure you get all the trace elements you need in your diet.'
The Sun
2 hours ago
- The Sun
The correct way to apply insect repellent revealed, and if you do it wrong you can expect more bites
WHETHER you're holidaying abroad of enjoying the warm UK weather, chances are mosquitoes are going to be an issue. These pesky insects can cause irritating bites, that may also pose a health risk depending on your location. Make sure you're not making an easy error when applying your insect repellant this summer. And if you're travelling abroad, take extra care as bites can sometimes lead to issues such as malaria, dengue, Zika fever, and yellow fever. Bug repellents need to be applied during the day and also at night, and whether you're indoors and outdoors. You should also pay particular attention to the product's label before purchasing. DEET is chemical ingredient found in most bug sprays and shoppers are advised to check for it when picking up a bottle. "A product with 50% DEET is recommended as a first choice," said official Government advice, last updated in 2023. "If DEET is not tolerated, use of a repellent containing the highest strength formulation available of either icaridin (20%), eucalyptus citriodora oil, hydrated, cyclised or 3-ethlyaminopropionate is recommended." And whichever bug spray you opt for, make sure you're applying it at the correct time alongside your other products. This is particularly relevant when it comes to another summer essential: suncream. The Government stressed the importance of always using bug repellant afterward you apply suncream for the most effective results. Plague of parasites that hitch a ride on flying insects and 'slurp liquid from human skin' sweep holiday hotspot You should also opt for suncreams with an SPF of 30 to 50 as DEET can reduce their potency. Most repellents need to be reapplied frequently, especially in hot weather conditions or after spending time in water. Users are encouraged to read each repellent's packaging for more specific guidance. "50% DEET is safe for those pregnant and breastfeeding and for babies older than two months," the Government's guidance explained. "Get advice before you travel from your doctor or pharmacist if your baby is aged under two months. How to prevent tick bites - and remove the bugs There are a few things you can do to lessen your likelihood of tick bites. Firstly, try and cover as much of your skin as possible while walking outdoors and tuck your trousers into your socks. You should also be using insect repellent containing DEET on your clothes and skin, and wearing light coloured clothing so you can spot a tick easily. Also stick to paths where possible when you're out walking. How can I remove a tick safely? To remove a tick safely: Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick-removal tool. You can buy these from some pharmacies, vets and pet shops. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible. Slowly pull upwards, taking care not to squeeze or crush the tick. Dispose of it when you have removed it. Clean the bite with antiseptic or soap and water. The chance of getting ill is low. You do not need to do anything else unless you notice a rash or become unwell. If either of these happen, make sure to see a GP so you can get treatment as soon a possible. "Take insect repellents with you—in case of shortages at your destination." You can also make use of other steps to prevent bites, including wearing long-sleeved clothing and treating nets with insecticide. These are particularly important in situations where you might be sleeping outdoors or in a space without air conditioning. "Check your net for rips and tuck the ends under the mattress," the Government advised. "There may also be a risk of bites from ticks and other insects; the same protective measures will help reduce bites from these too." 2
Daily Mail
2 hours ago
- Daily Mail
Teen, 15, nearly died after falling ill with a bacterial infection while menstruating
A woman reveals how she slipped in a coma and almost died after suffering toxic shock syndrome . rom a tampon as a teenager Now, Shannon Turner has laid bare the horrifying ordeal exclusively with saying: 'It put me in a coma and nearly took my life - I hadn't even had my period for a full year yet.' Shannon, who just 15-years-old and on a family vacation at the time, revealed she began to feel sick in the evening after she landed, but she assumed it was just jet lag, but woke up the next day with extreme symptoms, including: vomiting, diarrhea, a fever, and fatigue. She continued: 'I was brought to the doctor that afternoon, given a shot for nausea, and sent home.' 'I continued to deteriorate and was brought back to the doctor later that same day.' She recalled: 'My last memory is collapsing in the office and laying on the ground because it hurt too much to sit up.' 'My heart rate was extremely high, my blood pressure was dangerously low, and I was rushed to the ICU. I didn't wake up until a few days later.' While Shannon was unconscious, doctors worked furiously to diagnose her - initially misdiagnosing her with meningitis and nearly performed an unnecessary spinal tap. She said: 'Thankfully, my mom mentioned to a family member that I was on my period - and that's when menstrual toxic shock syndrome (mTSS) was suggested.' 'The doctors were informed and my treatment plan shifted. I was incredibly lucky the infectious disease doctor on call had studied toxic shock and knew exactly what to do, but because mTSS progresses so quickly, I was still given a 50/50 chance of survival.' She explained that after the doctors saved her life, she was sent home with 'little guidance' on what to expect during recovery, or how long her symptoms would last - and the aftermath was brutal. 'My hospital stay was only a few days, but the recovery afterward took much longer,' Shannon said. 'I dealt with memory loss, anxiety, attention issues, and depression. My periods also became extremely painful. 'From the age of 15, I was put on prescription painkillers to manage my menstrual pain.' Her experience led to her starting her nonprofit, Protect Her Inc., which is dedicated to 'revolutionizing menstrual health education.' 'We believe knowledge is power - and yet, so many people are navigating their cycles with almost none,' she pointed out. 'I began to see why [there were no recourses], because periods have been taboo for far too long. It's the same reason I never talked about my experience with mTSS, and that silence was incredibly isolating.' Now, over 15 years later, Shannon regularly shares tips on how to avoid the life-threatening situation happening to other people - as well as the symptoms she ignored. 'My message to anyone using tampons is: use the lowest absorbency possible. Your tampon should be saturated when you remove it - if your flow is light, opt for a liner instead,' she listed. She also advises against using tampons overnight, noting if you begin to get sick you won't notice the symptoms if you're asleep. 'We need to stay aware of what our bodies are telling us - especially when there's a foreign object inside us,' she pointed out. Shannon added it's important to learn about the brands of sanitary products you're using, and make sure you're comfortable with their ingredients and manufacturing standards. She urged: 'Most importantly, be in tune with your body. It's always communicating with us, if we take the time to listen.' Shannon also advises people to immediately take a tampon out if they start feeling sick - describing the symptoms as flu-like. She insisted: 'So [if you experience] headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever - take the tampon out. If you feel even worse go seek medical attention.' Shannon now hopes to educate young women through her non-profit, Protect Her Inc, which provides comprehensive menstrual education to adolescents aged seven to 18, with 'a focus on practical knowledge that fosters confidence, health literacy, and open dialogue.'
