In a nutshell
This article investigated the safety and effectiveness of a processed rice bran (PRB) supplement in the management of patients with high blood pressure (BP). The authors concluded that daily consumption of a rice bran supplement with PRB can improve mildly high BP.
Some background
Hypertension is a condition where the BP is constantly high. High BP can lead to severe complications such as heart disease and death. People with high normal (a BP of 130-139/85-89mmHg) and grade 1 hypertension (a BP of 140-159/90-99mmHg) can be managed with diet and healthy lifestyle.
Rice bran has been found to have an anti-hypertensive protein. However, the effect on overall effectiveness and safety of a processed rice bran (PRB) supplement in patients with hypertension are still under investigation.
Methods & findings
This study involved 87 patients with high-normal and grade 1 hypertension. The patients were randomly split into two groups; Group 1 received 4 PRB tablets per day (44). Group 2 received 4 placebo tablets per day (43). The study lasted 12 weeks. The main outcome measured was a decrease in BP and side effects.
After 12 weeks follow-up, the systolic BP (the first number in the BP reading) of group 1 was much lower (132.8 mmHg) than in group 2 (137.1 mmHg). The diastolic BP (the second number in the BP reading) was similar between groups after 12 weeks. No serious side effects were reported.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that daily consumption of a rice bran supplement with PRB can improve mildly high BP.
The fine print
This study included a small number of participants over a short time period. Larger studies are needed for more solid evidence.
What’s next?
If you have concerns about high BP and rice supplements, please discuss with your doctor.
Published By :
Nutrients
Date :
Mar 28, 2019
