Researchers in India report that Joha, a traditional scented short-grain winter rice from the country’s remote northeast, may help prevent type 2 diabetes and protect the heart. The work matters because rice is a staple for millions and dietary changes can influence diabetes risk; global estimates put adult diabetes at 537 million in 2021, rising toward 783 million by 2045.
Scientists at the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST) in Guwahati began tests after local belief linked regular Joha consumption to lower diabetes and cardiovascular illness. Laboratory in vitro tests and experiments on rats showed Joha reduced glucose levels and helped prevent diabetes in those models. In trials, diabetic rats fed Joha recovered, showing higher insulin and better sugar metabolism than diabetic rats fed other rice varieties.
Analyses found two essential unsaturated fatty acids—linoleic (omega-6) and linolenic (omega-3)—and the Department of Science and Technology reported antioxidants and several bioactive compounds tied to blood sugar control and heart protection. Researchers say many farmers lack awareness of Joha’s nutraceutical potential and call for government policies and incentives to increase production. Supporters note Joha’s aroma and texture could make it attractive to consumers and aid dietary interventions against rising diabetes rates.
Difficult words
- prevent — Stop something from happening or developing
- cardiovascular — Related to the heart and blood vessels
- in vitro — Performed outside a living organism, in glass
- unsaturated fatty acid — Type of fat with double chemical bondsunsaturated fatty acids
- antioxidant — Substance that reduces cell damage from oxidationantioxidants
- bioactive compound — A chemical that affects biological processesbioactive compounds
- nutraceutical — Food or ingredient with health benefits beyond nutrition
- incentive — Something that encourages people to act or produceincentives
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Discussion questions
- What practical steps could governments take to help farmers grow more Joha rice?
- How might the aroma and texture of Joha influence people’s dietary choices?
- What challenges might researchers face when moving from rat studies to human dietary recommendations?
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