In the latest social media weight loss trend, TikTok users are touting “Rice-zempic” as a miracle diet solution. This new fad involves soaking rice in hot water, then adding lime juice to create a starchy drink purported to replicate the effects of popular weight loss medications. However, experts are skeptical of its efficacy.
Dr. Nate Wood, Director of Culinary Medicine at Yale School of Medicine, questioned the validity of this trend. He explained to Good Morning America, “Unlike medications that target the appetite center in the brain, there is no substantial evidence to support that these resistant starches can induce significant weight loss, either in the short or long term.”
The preparation of “Rice-zempic” involves soaking rice to create a starchy liquid, which is then enhanced with lime juice. Advocates claim the drink suppresses appetite and facilitates weight loss. Some social media users report losing up to 14 pounds in a week through this method. Nevertheless, registered dietitian Scott Keatley criticized the trend, emphasizing its lack of scientific support.
Keatley explained to Health, “Although rice water might offer some nutritional benefits, such as energy from its starch, there’s no proof it can significantly influence weight loss like anti-diabetic medications such as Ozempic.”
Dr. Kunal Shah also weighed in, noting that while starchy water may temporarily create a sensation of fullness, it does not offer lasting appetite control. “The fullness from starch is fleeting,” Shah said. “It doesn’t contribute meaningfully to metabolic health.”
Experts recommend sticking to proven methods for weight management. Dr. Wood suggests, “For sustainable weight maintenance or loss, focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes, combined with at least 150 minutes of exercise per week.”
