Is eating rice an obstacle to being fit? A renowned doctor says that “timing is everything”


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There is a common belief that eating rice late at night can cause weight gain and harm your health.

Rice is a key source of carbohydrates.

Rice is a staple food in every household but despite its popularity, there are numerous myths surrounding the consumption of rice that tend to leave people confused about its health effects. It is not uncommon to hear of enthusiasts of rice, affectionately called 'Veto' in West Bengal, incorporating it into almost every meal. However, it is essential to understand how and when to eat rice to avoid potential health problems. If consumed incorrectly, rice can have adverse effects, so let's explore the tips shared by a medical expert.

Renowned physician Bidhan Chandra Roy, speaking to Local 18, emphasized that rice is a key source of carbohydrates, which are essential in providing energy to the body. “Rice helps regulate blood sugar levels, ensuring a constant supply of energy throughout the day,” he explained. However, Dr. Roy warned that consuming rice and then going to sleep immediately can disrupt the digestion process. “If you eat rice and go to bed immediately afterward, the body struggles to digest it properly, leading to possible stomach upset. It is vital to stay active for a while after eating rice to aid digestion.

There is a common belief that eating rice late at night can cause weight gain and harm your health. However, this misconception is not entirely true. According to Dr. Roy, eating rice at night is not inherently bad, as long as it is done at the right time. The key factor is time. “As long as rice is consumed earlier in the evening, it poses no health risk,” he says.

The problem arises when rice is eaten late at night, especially after 10 or 11 p.m. This can interfere with the body's digestion process. To ensure proper digestion, Dr. Roy recommends having dinner, including rice, no later than 9 pm, which gives your body enough time to complete the digestion process before bed.

So while rice can be an excellent source of energy, it's important to follow some basic guidelines on when and how to consume it to get maximum health benefits.

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