The ‘Resistant Starch’ Secret: Why Frozen Rice May Be Healthier   

• Many people believe that freezing rice magically cuts its calories. In reality, while the total calorie count remains nearly the same, freezing changes how your body handles the food. The secret lies in a molecular transformation called “resistant starch.” When starchy foods such as rice, bread, or potatoes are cooked and then cooled or frozen, they undergo a process called retrogradation. This process converts some rapidly digestible starch into resistant starch, which behaves more like dietary fiber. Instead of being absorbed quickly in the small intestine, it moves to the large intestine, where it helps feed beneficial gut bacteria. A major benefit of this change is stabilizing your blood sugar. Typically, white rice causes a rapid rise in blood sugar followed by a drop in energy levels. Resistant starch slows digestion, helping people feel full longer and reducing sharp spikes in blood sugar. Although the calorie content remains largely unchanged, the slower digestion may make it easier to manage energy intake. To get the best results, experts recommend freezing cooked rice within two hours after preparation. When reheating, using a microwave may help preserve more resistant starch than other heating methods. J.K. Park Senior Reporter junior/1774407305/1613368089