Nutritional and Glycemic Indices of Different Rice Varieties from Ebonyi and Anambra States Nigeria

Abstract

The Glycemic Indices and proximate composition of selected rice varieties commercially cultivated in Ebonyi State and Anambra State of Nigeria (IR-8, 1416, Faro 44 and 306) were evaluated. Forty five healthy Albino rats were caged in groups of five rats each to perform this study. Each rat group was fed on a diet for a 14-day period to get them accustomed to it. The group of rats were later fasted for 18hours and tested for blood glucose at zero time before administering amount of test food containing an equivalent of 50g available carbohydrate in the Glucose (Standard), For consistency, each of the rice samples were ground into flour and administered to the rats together with water. Blood sugar was determined at 30,60,90 and 120 minutes by piercing the tip of the rat’s tail with needle and One-Touch Ultra glucometer and test strip. The result showed that 306 Achalla, 306 Afikpo had low glycemic index of 48 and 45 respectively. 1416 Ikwo and 1416 Igbariam had medium glycemic index of 51 and 68 respectively whereas IR-8 Ikwo, IR-8 Igbariam, Faro 44 Achalla and Faro 44 Akaeze had high glycemic index of 70, 78, 84, and 74. The proximate composition of the rice samples had a range of moisture (9.40- 11.10%); Ash (1.10-1.90%); Fat (1.25-2.00%); Crude fibre (0.90-1.40%); Protein (4.73-7.25%); and Carbohydrate (78.30-81.28%). From the results, 306 variety can be said to have a low glycemic index, 1416 a medium glycemic index whereas Faro 44 and IR-8 have high glycemic index, 306 variety could be recommended for the management of diabetics. The result of this study can help workers and experts involved in meal planning and can also go a long way to an effective utilization of our indigenous varieties thus adding value to the crop.