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Red rice vs black rice: Can south Indian varieties work for your heart, cholesterol, diabetes and haemoglobin?

Red rice vs black rice: Can south Indian varieties work for your heart, cholesterol, diabetes and haemoglobin?

Not all rice is bad if eaten in moderation and made a part of the total recommended daily calorie allowance. Also, rice should be combined with adequate protein and green leafy vegetables. Particularly South India’s heirloom rice varieties are a treasure house of nutritional and therapeutic properties. Of late, some research has also started validating the superfood value of indigenous rice varieties. These are rich in bioactive compounds that boost the nutritional value of foods.

KAVUNI: Red Kavuni is an aromatic, red-grained rice grown in Tamil Nadu that derives its rich colour from high levels of anthocyanins. It has been used traditionally as a cooling food during summer months and is valued for its anti-microbial properties that aid digestion.

KAIVARA SAMBA: This is a widely adaptable rice variety that can grow even in marginal soils. It is good for dehydration and having a low glycaemic index and high fibre, can be used to regulate blood sugar levels. The high fibre lends bulk to the dish and automatically helps in portion control. This rice contains selenium, which helps to make DNA and protects against cell damage, abnormal cancerous growth and infection.

POONGAR: This is a sweet-scented rice grown specifically for making rice flakes and fermenting. In parts of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, it is customarily given to women after puberty and during pregnancy as it is believed to ease gynaecological problems. It has no cholesterol and is high on resistant starch, which is good for the growth of gut bacteria. The fibre content helps lower cholesterol levels in the body while flavonoids reduce the risk of heart disease. Poongar rice has a low glycemic index while a compound called gamma-oryzanol helps reduce insulin resistance in the body. It is high in iron, magnesium and zinc and helps in increasing haemoglobin levels. It works for those with Celiac disease as it is 100 per cent gluten-free.

KATTU YANAM: A high-fibre red rice, it helps bring down cholesterol levels in the body. Its nutty flavour and texture make it a good source of energy. Its low glycaemic index makes it a top choice for people with diabetes. Easy to digest. It is a good source of Vitamin B, zinc, manganese and folic acid.

KOLIYAL: This is a brown hulled rice from Kerala that is used to make Puttu, an iconic breakfast dish of the region. A study by Naresuan University, Thailand, and published in PubMed Central, has shown how this rice improves sperm health parameters. These contain insoluble fibres and are low on sodium, which is good for those suffering from hypertension.

BLACK KAVUNI: This is yet another heritage rice from Tamil Nadu that derives its blackish-purple hue from high anthocyanin content. It is known for properties that cool the body, promote heart health and treat liver ailments. Its antioxidants help in managing heart health, it has a low glycaemic index and is, therefore, good for people with diabetes. It is a powerhouse of micronutrients like iron, magnesium and zinc.

THUYAMALLI: This rice is known for its vitamin B complex, especially B12, content. This strengthens the nervous system.

KARUN KURUVAI: A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that the antioxidant activity of this kind of red rice is higher than that of other rice varieties, which may help protect the heart against oxidative stress. It has a lower glycemic index compared to other rice varieties, which means it causes a slower rise in blood sugar levels after consumption.

MAPPILLAI SAMBA: It contains vitamin B1 that helps in healing stomach and mouth ulcers. It improves blood circulation, boosts immunity and stamina, strengthens muscles and nerves.

Given these health benefits, there is a growing awareness of how important it is to conserve this agricultural heritage and traditional knowledge. But at the risk of repetition, moderation is the key even if they are used as substitutes of the milled and processed variety.

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Medical Updates

Indian medtech industry urges govt action to reduce import dependency

Indian medtech industry urges govt action to reduce import dependency
In a bid to reduce India’s 80-85 per cent dependence on medical device imports, the Association of Indian Medical Device Industry in its pre-budget recommendations wants the government to address the soaring import bill, which currently stands over Rs 63,200 crore.
According to the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) report from August 2023, the Indian medical devices industry has the potential to expand from $12 billion today to $50 billion by 2030. This expansion could reduce import reliance to 35 per cent and boost exports from the current $3.4 billion to $18 billion by 2030. The ripple effect of this shift could generate over 1.5 million jobs in medical device manufacturing and related healthcare services.
Indian medtech industry urges govt action to reduce import dependency
Rajiv Nath, Forum Coordinator at AiMeD, emphasises the need for the government to withdraw Duty Exemption notifications on medical devices and provide nominal protection to neutralise competitiveness disabilities in manufacturing medical devices in India. Additionally, the industry seeks a phased approach to custom duty increases on critical components, ensuring the viability of manufacturing and avoiding erosion of competitiveness with zero-duty Free Trade Agreement (FTA) countries.
“Consumers do need to be protected but instead of a low duty strategy, we have been recommending for Customs to monitor MRP of imports and when found unreasonably higher than imports’ landed price, recommend to NPPA to consider capping MRP,” Nath further added.
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Government Guidelines Medical Updates Medicine & Health

JDRF International with William J Clinton Foundation to improve Type 1 diabetes care in India

JDRF International with William J Clinton Foundation to improve Type 1 diabetes care in India

JDRF International, the leading global type 1 diabetes (T1D) research and advocacy organisation, in partnership with the community, clinical partners and William J Clinton Foundation (WJCF), an affiliate of the Clinton Health Access Initiative in India, announced a sweeping set of collaborations that aims to drastically improve T1D care.

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The efforts include supporting public health programmes, innovative grassroots initiatives, and dedicated clinician networks converging to create a multi-dimensional strategy to tackle T1D. This approach reflects a holistic understanding of health care. Ensuring that essential social and educational needs are met, as all partners work in concert to promote more effective diabetes management for people living with T1D in India. 

JDRF International with William J Clinton Foundation to improve Type 1 diabetes care in India

“We are incredibly humbled to have the opportunity to work closely with our Indian colleagues who are making great strides in removing barriers to access and improving outcomes around the country,” said Sanjoy Dutta, Chief Scientific Officer, JDRF. “Increasing care for people living with type 1 diabetes in India is vital to JDRF’s global access work.”

According to the T1D Index, a first-of-its-kind data simulation tool that measures the human and public health impact of type 1 diabetes, India has the largest ‘missing’ prevalence of type 1 diabetes in the world. Increasing focus on screening for diagnosing T1D and helping manage care will improve longevity and quality of life for them. 

As part of this process, the Government of India has initiated several comprehensive programs that address immediate health care needs and pave the way for long-term systemic improvements in T1D care. Several Indian states are at the forefront, with significant T1D programmes, serving as models of innovation and effectiveness and select states will be served by the support currently being developed in partnership with JDRF International, William J Clinton Foundation, The Helmsley Charitable Trust with support from Eli Lilly and Company. 

At William J Clinton Foundation, we are deeply committed to partnering with and supporting public health programmes for comprehensive management of type 1 diabetes in select states of India. Our approach is that of collaboration and facilitation and our partnership with JDRF is designed to complement and enhance government-led diabetes care programs,” said Harkesh Dabas, Managing Director, William J Clinton Foundation. “We aim to bolster the implementation and scaling of these important initiatives. Our involvement underscores a public healthcare-owned and led initiative and collaborative spirit, ensuring that the strides made in type 1 diabetes care are both impactful and sustainable, and reach every individual in need across the country.” 

These dramatic advances in diabetes care are supported by The Impatient Network, a dynamic coalition of grassroots and community-based diabetes advocates working across India. Made up of people living with diabetes and their loved ones, The Impatient Network is working with partner organisations to provide access to peer-led education, support services and resources that will help to combat stigma and raise T1D awareness. 

As someone who personally navigates the challenges of type 1 diabetes, I’ve seen firsthand the critical need for comprehensive support and care. My involvement with The Impatient Network, starting from its first meeting, has been a journey of hope”, said Princess Padmaja Kumari Parmar, Founder and President of Friends of Mewar. “This network is a vital link in the collaboration between people with diabetes, government bodies, and clinicians. By joining hands with policymakers and medical experts, we are not just voicing our needs; we’re actively shaping a future where diabetes care is inclusive, innovative, and accessible to all. This collaborative approach is key to ensuring that every person with type 1 diabetes in India has access to the best possible care and support.” 

“The Impatient Network stands as a beacon of hope and change in India’s type 1 diabetes landscape. As a united force of grassroots advocates, we embody the collective voice and determination of communities striving for better diabetes care,” said Jazz Sethi, global diabetes advocate, Impatient Network member, and founder of The Diabesties Foundation. “Our focus on peer-led education and innovative awareness initiatives is more than just filling gaps in health care; it is about building trust, understanding, and a sustainable framework for comprehensive diabetes management. We’re crafting a future where type 1 diabetes care is accessible, empathetic, and effectively meets the real needs of those it serves.” 

The initiative aims to create a synergy between medical experts and peer groups, fostering a cooperative environment where clinical knowledge meets community wisdom. This work is essential in making diabetes care more accessible and tailored to the needs of people living with T1D in India. 

“In our mission to advance T1D care in India, collaboration is key. A key part of that is a partnership with the existing work being done by clinical communities such as the Diabesties & Blue Circle and institutions such as RSSDI, ISPAE, and ESI,” said Professor Partha Kar, NHS National Specialty Advisor in Diabetes. “Our Clinical Stewardship Program embodies this collaborative ethos, bridging the gap between medical professionals and the T1D communities we serve. It is a personal privilege to be given this opportunity by JDRF – to be able to give back something to the country to which I owe so much of my life. As the saying goes: ‘Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani’ (still my heart is Indian).”

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