The study that found arsenic in brown rice:
- Discovered surprisingly high levels of arsenic in rice-based organic toddler formula, energy bars and organic brown rice syrup in general - six times the federal limit
- Some say it was done to encourage the FDA to set regulations for arsenic levels in food
- Currently there are noo requirements for testing arsenic levels in a wide range of food products grown in the U.S
- Many agree that the study made some incorrect comparisons that make the results misleading and confusing for consumers to understand
What is Arsenic?
- A naturally occurring toxic element that occurs naturally in soil and groundwater
- Some levels are present in all rice
- Commonly found in a wide range of fruits, vegetables, grains and seafood (especially chicken and fish)
- Also found in the air and drinking water.
- The average diet includes as much as 1,000 micrograms of ORGANIC arsenic per day
- Brown rice tends to have more arsenic than white rice, and levels vary based on where and when it is grown
- The majority of brown rice syrup is imported from Pakistan, where higher levels of naturally occurring arsenic are found in the water and soil
Arsenic Exposure Can Cause:
- Thickening and discoloration of the skin
- Stomach pain
- Numbness in hands and feet
- Partial paralysis and blindness
- Increases the risk of bladder cancer and other cancers.
- Inorganic arsenic poses a health risk, whereas organic arsenic is not known to pose a health risk and is actually needed in low levels by the human body as noted here).
- Arsenic does not cause reproductive toxicity
- Organic arsenic is not recognized as a potential for risk
- No scientific studies that have linked U.S. rice consumption to adverse health effects. U.S. grown rice remains a safe, wholesome food for all consumers
What Can You Do To Protect Yourself?
- Ask companies to do 3rd party and FDA testing, plus self-regulate their products and ingredients
- When cooking brown rice, wash it well (soak in water before cooking if possible)
- Add extra water to the pot to help wash away the soluble arsenic
- People on gluten-free diets should try to diversify their grains (organic corn, quinoa, coconut, hemp seed, almond, sunflower seed and hazelnut products are just a few examples)
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