The Vietnam Food Administration under the Ministry of Health explains that while lotus seeds are a popular food with high nutritional value, the following groups should limit or avoid them to prevent possible health complications.
1. Individuals with cardiovascular conditions
Although lotus seeds are nutrient-rich, they contain alkaloid found in the lotus seed heart, which raises cardiovascular concerns. This compound can be toxic to heart muscle, potentially leading to serious issues such as arrhythmias or even heart failure if not handled correctly.
People with heart conditions should thus exercise caution with lotus seeds. For safer consumption, it’s advised to remove the lotus seed heart entirely before cooking. If used, detoxify the seed heart by roasting or heating it until it turns light yellow. Yet, this method doesn’t completely remove toxins, so it’s essential to stick to recommended amounts and avoid frequent consumption.
2. Individuals with digestive disorders
With their cooling nature and sweet taste, lotus seeds possess properties that help stop bleeding and reduce diarrhea. Because of that, those with constipation should limit their lotus seed intake, as it can aggravate the condition.
Additionally, lotus seeds are fiber-rich, and excessive consumption may lead to bloating and indigestion, particularly for those with weak digestion.
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Consuming lotus seeds improperly can pose various health risks. Illustration photo by Pixabay |
3. People with gout
Lotus seeds contain purine, a compound found in many foods that, when metabolized, converts into uric acid in the body. This compound may elevate gout risk or worsen gout symptoms.
4. People with kidney stones
High uric acid levels can also lead to kidney stones, causing pain, blood in urine, and other severe complications.
5. Individuals with sleep disorders
Sleep is vital for overall health, particularly brain function. Quality sleep enhances memory, focus, and mental clarity, while poor sleep can lead to memory issues, lack of focus, and mental health challenges.
Although lotus seeds contain natural sedatives that can help improve sleep quality, excessive reliance on them or other sedatives in general may have adverse effects.
6. Children under one year old
Lotus seeds are packed with nutrients, including protein, starch, and fiber. However, infants’ digestive systems are still developing and may struggle to process such dense nutrients, which could lead to bloating, indigestion, or constipation. Some infants may also experience allergic reactions to components in lotus seeds, with symptoms such as red rashes, itching, and difficulty breathing.
Therefore, children under one should avoid lotus seeds. For older children, they should be given only in small, well-prepared portions, such as thoroughly cooked and mashed. When introducing lotus seeds to a child’s diet, monitor for any reactions. If signs of allergy or indigestion appear, discontinue use and consult a doctor.
