Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

White rice has a longstanding history in traditional medicine systems, particularly within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), for managing symptoms of deficient appetite. In TCM, white rice (Oryza sativa) is considered to possess mild, easily digestible, and nourishing qualities, making it suitable for individuals with weakened digestion or poor appetite. It is often prescribed as part of congee or rice porridge—foods believed to strengthen the spleen and stomach, which are thought to govern appetite and digestion in TCM theory. Historical texts such as the "Shennong Bencao Jing" and subsequent classical materia medica literature mention rice as a staple food used to tonify qi (vital energy) and support those who are weak, convalescing, or have diminished appetite.

From a scientific standpoint, there is limited direct evidence that white rice specifically stimulates appetite or treats appetite deficiency. However, its bland flavor, low fiber content, and ease of digestion do make it a commonly recommended food in Western dietetics for individuals recovering from illness or experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort, which may indirectly support appetite by minimizing digestive strain. Overall, the primary justification for using white rice to treat deficient appetite is rooted in traditional use, with moderate support from a historical and practical dietary perspective, but little robust scientific validation.

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