The Effects and Risks of Eating Too Many Lotus Seeds

November 1, 2023

Lotus seed porridge is a common medicinal food, with the effects of nourishing the heart and calming the mind, invigorating the spleen and stopping diarrhea. It has a sweet taste and is easy to overconsume. So, what happens if you eat too many lotus seeds?

What happens if you eat too many lotus seeds

Gastrointestinal discomfort

Lotus seeds have the effects of clearing heat, detoxifying, and reducing heat. Overconsumption can cause discomfort to the gastrointestinal tract, affecting its normal function and leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating.

Flatulence

Lotus seeds are rich in dietary fiber, which can promote gastrointestinal peristalsis. Moderate consumption of lotus seeds has the effect of relieving constipation and facilitating the elimination of feces and gases from the body. However, excessive consumption of lotus seeds can cause flatulence.

What to do if you eat too many lotus seeds

Drink warm water

If you experience mild discomfort symptoms from excessive consumption of lotus seeds, there is no need to worry too much. You can drink plenty of water to dilute the effective ingredients of lotus seeds in the body. Warm water can also alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Seek medical attention

If you have consumed a large amount of lotus seeds and experience severe discomfort symptoms such as dizziness, numbness in the limbs, and palpitations, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately to prevent worsening of the condition.

How much lotus seeds to eat at a time

10-15 grams is appropriate.

Lotus seeds contain abundant amino acids, vitamins, proteins, and other nutrients. Moderate consumption can invigorate the spleen, nourish the kidneys, and calm the mind. However, excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Generally, it is appropriate to consume 10-15 grams of lotus seeds at a time. The amount can be adjusted according to individual physique or under the guidance of a doctor.

Who should not eat lotus seeds

1. People with dry and hard stools.

Lotus seeds have astringent properties and may worsen symptoms in people with dry stools and constipation, which is not conducive to recovery.

2. People with deficient yang energy.

Lotus seeds have a cold and bitter nature. Excessive consumption may cause deficiency of the spleen and stomach. People with deficient yang energy should not consume them to avoid aggravating their symptoms.

The best ways to eat lotus seeds

Lotus Seed and Red Date Porridge

Ingredients:

15 grams of lotus seeds, 10 red dates, appropriate amount of rice, goji berries, and sugar.

Instructions:

1. Remove the lotus seed cores, remove the red date pits, and soak the goji berries in warm water for 1 hour.

2. Pour boiling water into a rice cooker, add rice, lotus seeds, red dates, and goji berries.

3. Cook until the rice grains are soft, then add sugar to taste.

Effects: Nourishes the blood, beautifies the skin, invigorates the spleen, and benefits the stomach.

Lily and Lotus Seed Mung Bean Milk

Ingredients:

30 grams of soybeans, 20 grams each of mung beans, lilies, and lotus seeds.

Instructions:

1. Wash the soybeans and mung beans, and soak them in water overnight.

2. Soak the lilies and lotus seeds until soft.

3. Put all the ingredients into a soy milk machine and press the "soy milk" button. It takes about 30 minutes.

Effects: Nourishes yin, relieves agitation, clears heat, and detoxifies.

Sweet Potato and Lotus Seed Porridge

Ingredients:

1 sweet potato, 50 grams each of lotus seeds and lilies, 1/2 tablespoon of glutinous rice, 1/2 tablespoon of red beans, 5 honey dates, and honey to taste.

Instructions:

1. Wash the lotus seeds, lilies, red beans, and glutinous rice. Peel and cut the sweet potato into pieces.

2. Put all the ingredients into a pressure cooker and add three bowls of water.

3. Close the lid, press the "porridge" button.

4. After the pressure is released, it is ready to eat. Add honey when serving.

Effects: Beautifies the skin, nourishes the intestines, and promotes bowel movements.

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