Rice Bran

Rice bran, the outer layer of the rice grain, is a rich source of dietary fiber, γ-oryzanol, tocotrienols, and bioactive peptides, which contribute to its potential metabolic and cardiovascular benefits. Clinical evidence suggests that rice bran supplementation may improve metabolic syndrome parameters, including systolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, and antioxidant status. A meta-analysis of 26 RCTs found significant reductions in systolic blood pressure (WMD: -3.28 mmHg) and improvements in glycemic control and lipid profiles in individuals with metabolic syndrome [4]. Additionally, a randomized trial showed that 15 g/day of brown rice bran powder for 8 weeks improved metabolic syndrome characteristics and antioxidant enzyme activities [10]. A specific processed rice bran containing the peptide Leu-Arg-Ala (LRA) demonstrated anti-hypertensive effects in individuals with high-normal or stage 1 hypertension [2]. However, evidence for lipid-lowering effects remains inconclusive, with a recent meta-analysis showing no significant impact on total cholesterol, LDL-C, or triglycerides [1]. Rice bran arabinoxylan compound (RBAC), a modified derivative, shows immunomodulatory potential with no reported hepatic or renal toxicity at doses up to 3 g/day over 6 months [9][8].