Big effect
Rice bran dropped triglycerides by 15 mg/dL in a meta-analysis — but that average hid a wide range of individual results.
This is a moderate-sized signal from 5 studies in 572 people, but three found a benefit while two found none, so the overall evidence is real but not bulletproof.
A meta-analysis of 5 randomized trials found that consuming at least 30 grams of rice bran (especially as rice bran oil) reduced triglycerides by an average of 15 mg/dL. The effect was larger at higher doses and longer durations, though most studies were conducted in Asian populations, so it's unclear how well the results translate to other groups.
Where this fits in the evidence
Pillser has synthesized 5 studies on rice bran for Reduced Triglyceride Levels — overall evidence strength: Moderate.
Across 5 studies, 3 reported beneficial effects on triglyceride reduction, with effect sizes ranging from small to moderate. The highest-quality evidence comes from a 2024 meta-analysis (n=572) showing a moderate beneficial effect (-15.13 mg/dL; 95% CI: -29.56, -0.71). The most-studied dose is 30 g/day of rice bran oil, and effects were typically observed at 8 weeks (median study duration: 56 days).
The study
- Meta-Analysis
- n = 572
- 2024-12-30
- Nutrients
- PubMed: 39796546
- DOI: 10.3390/nu17010114
- Full study breakdown →
This is a plain-language summary of a research finding, not medical advice. Pillser surfaces research signals to help you decide what's worth investigating — always consult a qualified professional before changing what you take.