What Is Rice-Zempic? TikTokers Promote Affordable Alternative to Ozempic for Weight Loss

Rice-Zempic Gains Popularity on TikTok

A new trend called “Rice-Zempic” is making waves on TikTok as a low-cost alternative to weight-loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. This homemade drink is made by mixing rice, water, and lime juice, and many users claim it helps them lose weight. These medications work by mimicking a hormone that helps with weight loss during eating. The trend has caught on, with many people sharing their weight-loss stories using this drink on social media.

Recently, Ozempic has become very popular among celebrities and the general public because it is known to help with weight loss. However, this increased demand has led to shortages for people who need the drug to treat diabetes.

According to The Daily Dot, Ozempic costs about $935 per month (around ₹78,000) and requires a doctor’s prescription. Because of this high cost, some people are looking for cheaper alternatives like Rice-Zempic. However, health experts warn that there is no scientific proof that this homemade drink works as well as the medications.

What is Rice-Zempic?

Rice-Zempic is a drink made by mixing rice, water, and lime juice. To make it, people soak unwashed rice and lime juice in warm water for 5 to 30 minutes, or sometimes overnight. After soaking, they strain out the rice and drink the remaining liquid.

Supporters of Rice-Zempic say it is a cheaper and more accessible option compared to Ozempic, which is why it has gained its name.

Does Rice-Zempic Work?

Scott Keatley, co-owner of Keatley Medical Nutrition Therapy, says the drink has “zero scientific backing.”

“While rice water might have some nutritional benefits, like providing energy from its starch content, there is no evidence that it helps with weight loss in the same way that medications like Ozempic do,” Keatley told Health.com.

Two other doctors interviewed by the magazine suggested that the drink might make people feel full, which could lead them to eat less.

Dr. Mir Ali pointed out that the main benefit is that “it’s relatively low calorie—it’s just starchy water.” Ali explained that the drink might help people feel fuller before meals, which could reduce how much they eat overall. Kunal Shah, an assistant professor in the division of endocrinology at the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical Center, agreed, saying that “the starch expands in your stomach and can make you feel full—but it’s very short-lived.”

Ali also clarified that Rice-Zempic does not have the same effects as Ozempic, stating, “It has no hormonal effects like Ozempic to stimulate receptors.”