Diabetic-Friendly Rice Option Endorsed by Health Minister, According to Public Statement
Thailand's Kor Khor 43 Rice Emerges as a Healthier Option for Diabetes Management
Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin announced that Kor Khor 43 rice, a Thai variety, could be a beneficial choice for people with diabetes due to its slower conversion to sugar in the bloodstream. This rice converts at a significantly lower rate compared to regular rice (55% compared to 87%).
The Minister made the announcement during the opening ceremony of a health services initiative for all ages at Banphot Phisai Hospital in Nakhon Sawan province. This initiative focuses on combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and offers specialized clinics for various health issues, including obesity, kidney disease, heart disease, and more.
The initiative aims to provide comprehensive healthcare services tailored to the public's needs, in line with the government's policy to ensure equal access to quality healthcare for all age groups, while minimizing waiting times and travel costs. Somsak anticipates that this initiative will cater to over 38 million visits, potentially saving billions of baht in future healthcare costs.
Additionally, Banphot Phisai District, where Kor Khor 43 rice is cultivated, was highlighted by Somsak. This rice variety, with a relatively low glycemic index, is beneficial for diabetes management. Brown rice causes a spike in blood sugar levels within two hours of consumption, but Kor Khor 43 rice posted a mere 55% increase only two hours after consumption, which is significantly lower than most other rice varieties.
Somsak supports the initiative, as it not only aids patients in managing their condition more effectively but also supports local farmers by allowing them to sell their rice at higher prices.
While existing knowledge suggests that rice varieties with a lower glycemic index and higher fiber content are better suited for people with diabetes due to slower rises in blood glucose levels, without specific data comparing Kor Khor 43 rice with regular rice, it is not possible to state precise health benefits. For accurate information, it is recommended to consult nutritional analyses or scientific studies specific to Kor Khor 43 rice.
- The public health minister is promoting Kor Khor 43 rice, a Thai variety with lower glycemic index, for people managing diabetes, as it slows down the conversion of sugar in the bloodstream.
- As part of a health services initiative, Banphot Phisai Hospital is providing specialized clinics for various health issues, like diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease, in an effort to combat non-communicable diseases.
- The health initiative encompasses comprehensive healthcare services for all age groups, with a goal to equalize access to quality care, reduce waiting times, and minimize travel costs, aiming to cater to over 38 million visits.
- Science and nutrition play a crucial role in understanding the health benefits of Kor Khor 43 rice, as studies comparing its glycemic index and fiber content to regular rice could help establish its precise benefits for managing diabetes.
