Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Grains have been traditionally used in various cultures to support or stimulate appetite, especially in cases of deficiency or convalescence. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), grains such as rice, millet, and barley are considered foundational foods that "strengthen the spleen and stomach," organs believed to govern digestion and appetite. Classical texts like the Shennong Bencao Jing reference the use of grains to restore digestive health and encourage eating in those with poor appetite. Similarly, in Ayurvedic medicine, rice and other easily digestible grains are recommended for individuals with weak digestion or low appetite, as they are thought to be nourishing and gentle on the digestive tract.

However, while there is a strong historical precedent for their use, modern scientific validation specifically supporting grains to treat appetite deficiency is limited. Most evidence remains anecdotal or rooted in traditional dietary practices rather than controlled clinical studies. Grains may help indirectly by providing easily digestible calories and nutrients, which can be beneficial for those recovering from illness or with chronic poor appetite, but there is little data suggesting any specific appetite-stimulating compounds in grains themselves. Overall, the use of unspecified grains for appetite is primarily justified by tradition, with limited scientific evidence for direct efficacy.

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