What are the side effects or sickness you can get in eating uncooked rice?
Eating uncooked rice does not directly cause any specific side effects or illnesses unless it is contaminated.
However, there are potential risks associated with consuming raw or undercooked rice that can lead to health problems.
Here are some potential side effects or risks of eating uncooked rice:
- Raw Rice Toxicity: Certain types of rice, especially wild or black rice, may contain higher levels of antinutrients called lectins. Lectins can cause digestive discomfort and toxicity if consumed in large amounts. They can result in symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.
- Food Poisoning: Uncooked rice can carry bacteria such as Bacillus cereus, which can cause food poisoning. This bacteria can survive the cooking process and can multiply in cooked rice that is left at room temperature for too long. Symptoms of Bacillus cereus food poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
- Increased Risk of Foodborne Illnesses: Raw rice may be contaminated with various bacteria, mold, and spores. These microorganisms can cause foodborne illnesses such as salmonella, E. coli, and Aspergillus. Symptoms of foodborne illnesses can range from mild to severe, including fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Uncooked rice contains higher amounts of antinutrients, such as phytic acid, which can interfere with the absorption of certain minerals, including iron, zinc, and calcium. Regular consumption of uncooked rice can lead to nutritional deficiencies if other sources of these nutrients are not included in the diet.
- Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to rice or specific proteins found in rice. Consuming uncooked rice may trigger allergic reactions in these individuals, leading to symptoms such as hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and digestive problems.
- Digestive Problems: Since raw rice is harder to digest than cooked rice, consuming large amounts of uncooked rice can lead to digestive problems such as bloating, gas, and constipation.
It's important to thoroughly cook rice to eliminate any harmful bacteria and minimize potential risks associated with eating uncooked rice.