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 Is Brown Rice Syrup Healthy?

I soon discovered the truth about brown rice syrup—that it’s just another unduly glorified refined sweetener. (Well, maybe it has a few more minerals than table sugar, but you’d have to eat quite a bit of it before those nutrients even began to show up on your favorite diet app.)

 On Rice and Arsenic

Last week, a team of researchers from Dartmouth University released a widely publicized study with the somewhat provocative title “Arsenic, Organic Foods and Brown Rice Syrup.” The study was yet another general reminder that words like “organic” or “natural” are not synonymous with the word “safe.” But more specifically it detailed unexpected amounts of poisonous […]

 The Harsh Reality of Brown Rice Syrup

As a final note, traditionally prepared brown rice syrup may not be pure, empty calories like the modern version. However, it will still probably contain elevated levels of arsenic depending on the source of the rice. Given this, I see no reason to keep it on hand or recommend it.

 What Is Brown Rice Syrup and Is It Good For You? A Dietitian Weighs In

“Even though brown rice syrup is promoted as plant-based, gluten-free, and generally 'healthy,' it is ultimately broken down into simple sugars in our bodies, just like regular white sugar and high-fructose corn syrup,” Fausze said. “Some studies have shown that brown rice syrup has a higher glycemic index, which means the sugar is absorbed more quickly and leads to a spike in sugar levels in our bodies.”

Articles of Interest

Arsenic and Brown Rice Syrup: Should You Be Afraid?

Brown rice syrup has been a hit among health nuts for a while because it doesn’t raise your glycemic index like other sweeteners including sugar, honey, and of course, high fructose corn syrup. But last year brown rice syrup was rocked with controversy when Consumer Reports released an analysis of arsenic levels in rice products like white rice, brown rice, and rice breakfast cereals.

Arsenic, Organic Foods, and Brown Rice Syrup

There are currently no U.S. regulations applicable to As in food, but our findings suggest that the OBRS products we evaluated may introduce significant concentrations of Asi into an individual’s diet. Thus, we conclude that there is an urgent need for regulatory limits on As in food.

Brown Rice Syrup: Good or Bad?

Like most refined sugars, brown rice syrup contains a lot of sugar and almost no essential nutrients. Brown rice syrup has a glycemic index of 98, which is higher than almost every other sweetener on the market. Significant amounts of arsenic have been found in rice syrups and products sweetened with them. This is a potential cause for concern.

In Rice, How Much Arsenic Is Too Much?

There is no federal limit for arsenic in food, even though trace amounts of the toxic element are commonly found in rice, fruits, juices, beer, flour, corn and wheat, depending on where it's grown. The toxic stuff is inorganic arsenic, which is different from organic arsenic. Organic arsenic is found in nature but passes through the body quickly.

Oh, Baby: There May Be Arsenic in Your Formula

A new study suggests that organic brown-rice syrup — a sweetener used in many organic and gluten-free foods, including baby formula — may be a hidden source of arsenic.

Organic Brown Rice Syrup: The Better Sweetener

Brown rice syrup, on the other hand, does not contain fructose. It includes three sugars in total — maltotriose (52%), maltose (45%), and glucose (3%). However, don't be fooled by the names. Maltose is made up of two glucose molecules, while maltotriose is three glucose molecules. Therefore, your body processes brown rice syrup the same way as it would process 100% glucose.

What Is Brown Rice Syrup?

Brown rice syrup is a vegan and gluten-free liquid sugar substitute derived from brown rice. It is mainly produced in Asia, Europe, and the United States. It's traditionally used in Asian foods and has become popular among people looking for a plant-based sweetener alternative to refined sugar.

Why Brown Rice Syrup is a Popular Sweetener

Let’s talk sweeteners for a minute. You want one that has a distinct flavor and favorable color. Oh yeah, it be great if it’s healthy and possibly clean label! These days there are plenty of options of sweetness. But if you relate to the description above, brown rice syrup may be a good choice for you.