Harmful effects of using lotus seeds incorrectly

My family loves eating lotus seeds to help us sleep well, especially when we cook them in porridge for our baby. So, doctor, what precautions should we take when using lotus seeds? (Quynh, 30 years old, Hanoi ).

Reply:

The scientific name of lotus seeds is Nelumbinis semen, originating from the lotus plant (Nelumbo nucifera). Lotus seeds are not only used as a snack, in desserts, jams, and in many delicious and nutritious dishes, but are also a valuable medicinal ingredient.

100g of dried lotus seeds contain 332 kcal, 64.47g of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Lotus seeds also contain beneficial plant compounds with antioxidant properties such as flavonoids, glycosides, phenolics, and alkaloids. They are considered an excellent source of nutrients, offering many health benefits such as promoting good sleep, relaxation, stress reduction, cardiovascular health, lowering blood sugar, aiding digestion, nourishing pregnant women, weight loss, fat reduction, anti-inflammatory effects, and pain relief.

However, when using it, you need to pay attention to the dosage to adjust it to suit your health, age, and other related factors. The usual dose is about 2-3 handfuls of lotus seeds, or 250 mg to 3 g of lotus seed powder, or 2-5 g of lotus seed embryo.

Young children should not eat too many lotus seeds because their digestive systems are still immature and cannot absorb them. Furthermore, they may experience allergic reactions, causing breathing difficulties, itchy skin, vomiting, diarrhea, and even anaphylactic shock, which can be fatal if not treated promptly. Parents should not mix lotus seeds into porridge as it can easily cause bloating, indigestion, and loss of appetite in children.

Lotus seeds have anti-diarrheal properties. Therefore, consuming too much can lead to bloating, indigestion, and constipation. People with gout or a history of kidney stones, or those at risk of developing kidney stones, should eat lotus seeds in moderation. People with heart disease should remove the lotus seed embryo or consume them in moderation. You should roast the lotus seed embryo until it turns yellow to remove toxins before use.

People who are taking Western medicine to treat diabetes or high blood pressure should consult their doctor before incorporating lotus seeds into their diet to avoid excessive hypoglycemia or hypotension.

Lotus seeds have been widely used in daily life, cuisine , and medicine. However, people need to choose products with clear origins, ensure food safety, and consume them in moderation to maintain good health. At the same time, you must be aware of your potential allergic reactions to lotus seeds to avoid health problems.

Doctor Huynh Tan Vu
Department of Traditional Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital

Source link