WHAT IS RICE-ZEMPIC? TIKTOKERS TOUT LOW-COST ALTERNATIVE TO OZEMPIC FOR WEIGHT LOSS

A new trend, "Rice-Zempic," has taken over tik-tok, touting it as a budget-friendly substitute for weight-loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. This concoction involves mixing rice, water, and lime juice, with users claiming significant weight-loss results. These medications mimic a hormone naturally produced during eating to aid weight loss. The trend has gained traction, with numerous users sharing their experiences of shedding pounds through this homemade drink across various social media channels.

In recent months, Ozempic has surged in popularity among both celebrities and the general public, largely due to its widely touted side effect of weight loss. However, this newfound demand has resulted in shortages for those who require the drug for diabetes treatment.

According to The Daily Dot, Ozempic commands a steep price of $935 per month (approximately ₹78,000) and necessitates a doctor’s prescription. As a result, some individuals are now exploring an alternative dubbed Rice-Zempic online. This homemade concoction is purportedly seen as a cheaper substitute, yet health experts caution that there is no scientific evidence supporting its efficacy in achieving weight loss miracles as claimed on social media platforms.

What is Rice-Zempic?

Rice-Zempic is a beverage created by mixing rice, water, and lime juice. To prepare it, enthusiasts steep unwashed rice and lime juice in warm water for anywhere between 5 to 30 minutes, though some prefer to steep the mixture overnight. Once steeped, the rice is strained out, leaving behind the drink for consumption.

Advocates of Rice-Zempic argue that it offers a more affordable and readily available substitute to Ozempic, hence its moniker.

Does Rice-Zempic work?

Scott Keatley, co-owner of Keatley Medical Nutrition Therapy, explained that the beverage has “zero scientific backing.”

“While rice water may have some nutritional benefits, such as providing a source of energy from its starch content, there is no evidence to suggest it has any properties that would significantly impact weight loss, especially in the manner that anti-diabetic medications like Ozempic do,” Keatley told Health.com.

Two other doctors interviewed by the magazine suggested that the drink might induce feelings of satiety, potentially leading consumers to eat less.

Mir Ali, MD, emphasised its primary advantage, stating that "it’s relatively low calorie—it’s just starchy water.” Ali further explained that the beverage could help individuals feel fuller before meals, potentially reducing their overall food intake. Kunal Shah, an assistant professor in the division of endocrinology at the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical Centre, echoed this sentiment, noting that “the starch expands in your stomach and can make you feel full—but it’s very short-lived.”

Ali clarified that despite its benefits, Rice-Zempic does not replicate the effects of Ozempic, stating, “It has no hormonal effects like Ozempic to stimulate receptors.”

2024-06-29T02:54:54Z dg43tfdfdgfd