Rice bran oil

Bio-Activity Analysis
Heart Health Impact (Cholesterol Reduction)
SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION
Health Benefits & Sources
Why You Need It
- Heart Health Guardian: Helps lower 'bad' LDL cholesterol while maintaining 'good' HDL levels.
- Potent Antioxidant: Contains Oryzanol and Vitamin E to combat free radical damage.
- Blood Sugar Regulation: May improve insulin sensitivity, aiding in metabolic health.
- Skin & Hair Support: The fatty acids nourish the skin barrier from the inside out.
Deep Dive
Rice Bran Oil is unique because of its balanced fatty acid profile (mostly monounsaturated) and its superstar antioxidant, Gamma-Oryzanol. This compound is rarely found in other oils and is linked to reducing cholesterol absorption in the gut. Combined with Tocotrienols (a form of Vitamin E), it creates a 'synergistic' effect that protects your arteries from inflammation and plaque buildup. It also has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it a healthy choice for stir-frying without breaking down into harmful compounds.
Natural Food Sources
While Rice Bran Oil is the most concentrated source, the nutrients it contains (like Vitamin E and phytosterols) are found in the bran of other whole grains. However, you cannot easily extract the oil from bran at home.
| Food Source | Amount (Per Tbsp) | Key Compound |
|---|---|---|
| Rice Bran Oil | ~14g | Oryzanol (1-2%) |
| Wheat Germ Oil | ~14g | Vitamin E |
| Brown Rice (Cooked) | ~1 cup | Fiber & Trace Minerals |
Supplementation
Usage: Use Rice Bran Oil for high-heat cooking (stir-frying, roasting) or as a finishing oil for salads. Dosage: Aiming for 1 to 2 tablespoons daily is sufficient to gain the cardiovascular benefits. Who should take it: It is excellent for individuals looking to improve their cholesterol profile naturally or those seeking a heart-healthy cooking oil alternative to soybean or corn oil.
Top Food Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Safety & Side Effects
Rice Bran Oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA and is well-tolerated by most people.
Side Effects: Very rare. Some individuals might experience mild gastrointestinal upset (stomach discomfort or gas) if they suddenly increase their intake of fiber-rich oils. Start with a smaller amount to let your body adjust.
Interactions: It may have a mild blood-thinning effect due to its Vitamin E content. If you are on blood thinners (like Warfarin) or preparing for surgery, consult your doctor.
Scientific References
- [1]Sharma, R. D., & Raghuram, T. C. (1990). Hypocholesterolemic effect of rice bran oil: A study on normolipidemic subjects.
- [2]Wilson, T. A., et al. (2007). Rice bran oil and oryzanol reduce plasma lipids and lipoproteins in hypercholesterolemic subjects.
- [3]Juliano, C., et al. (2002). Antioxidant activity of gamma-oryzanol and its components.