Chill Your Food, Cut Your Calories?

Online wellness influencers propose that chilling cooked carbohydrate-rich foods like rice, pasta, and potatoes can significantly reduce their calorie content. This process, known as retrogradation, converts easily digestible starch into resistant starch, which is harder for the body to break down. Studies have shown that consuming cooled rice can lead to lower blood glucose levels compared to freshly cooked rice. This effect is beneficial not only for diabetics but also for the general population, as stable blood sugar levels can help manage cravings and reduce fat storage.

However, experts caution that the calorie reduction from retrogradation is not as dramatic as some influencers claim. While it may influence hormones and metabolism to aid in calorie control, it doesn't significantly change the food's actual calorie content. Furthermore, chilling does not replenish the fiber, minerals, and vitamins lost during the refining of grains. Nutritionists suggest that a more straightforward and effective approach to healthier eating involves substituting refined starches with minimally processed whole grains.