Scientists in the Philippines have developed a new variety of rice that could potentially help in the fight against the rising prevalence of diabetes. Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide, with numbers expected to increase significantly in the coming years. Factors such as being overweight, genetics, and lack of exercise contribute to the most common form of diabetes, known as type 2.
Dr. Lindsey Smith Taillie, a nutritional epidemiologist and professor at the University of North Carolina, highlighted the global concern surrounding the increasing prevalence of diabetes. While the disease has been prevalent in high-income countries for years, low- and middle-income countries are now experiencing rapid increases in diabetes cases as well.
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes have a significant impact on global health, with millions of people succumbing to these illnesses annually. NCDs are caused by a combination of genetic, physiological, environmental, and behavioral factors. These diseases, including cancer, chronic respiratory illnesses, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, are on the rise globally, affecting both developed and developing nations.
In response to the growing diabetes crisis, researchers at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines, in collaboration with other institutions, have developed a new variety of rice. By screening hundreds of seed samples over a decade, researchers identified genes with a lower glycemic index and higher protein content, creating a healthier rice option that is considered diabetes-friendly.
Dr. Nese Sreenivasulu, the principal scientist at IRRI, explained that the new rice variety could have a significant impact on countries in Asia and Africa where rice consumption is high. While the diabetes-friendly rice is yet to be grown outside of laboratories, plans are in place to cultivate it in countries like India and the Philippines to combat poverty and hunger.
Despite the potential benefits of the new rice variety, Dr. Taillie emphasized that sugary drinks and ultra-processed foods pose greater risks for diabetes than rice consumption. She suggested implementing policies such as taxes on sugary beverages and processed foods, as well as improving warning labels on packaging to promote healthier eating habits.
In conclusion, the development of a healthier rice variety by Philippine scientists is a promising step towards addressing the growing burden of diabetes globally. However, comprehensive policies and initiatives focused on promoting healthy eating habits and reducing the consumption of unhealthy foods are essential in combating the diabetes crisis. Only through a holistic approach can we effectively tackle the rising prevalence of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases.