The Nutritional Benefits and Precautions of Edamame

Edamame is fresh yellow soybeans in their pods, which turn into soybeans after being dried. Edamame is green in color and can also be eaten after being cooked. It is rich in nutrients, although it has a higher fat content compared to other vegetables, most of the fat is unsaturated fatty acids that can be digested and absorbed by the body. However, there are some precautions to take when eating edamame, such as whether it is safe to eat uncooked edamame.

Nutritional Value of Edamame

Edamame has a mild and sweet taste and is beneficial to the spleen and large intestine meridians. Every 100 grams of edamame contains 5 grams of fat, 4 grams of dietary fiber, 13 grams of protein, 135 milligrams of calcium, 188 milligrams of phosphorus, and 478 milligrams of potassium. Fresh edamame also contains trace amounts of soy isoflavones, which are natural estrogen and can improve discomfort during menopause in women. Edamame is also rich in potassium, which can relieve fatigue and loss of appetite. Consuming edamame can effectively supplement the body with abundant nutrients.

Can You Eat Uncooked Edamame?

No, it is not safe to eat uncooked edamame. Occasionally eating uncooked edamame may not have a significant impact, but consuming uncooked edamame for a long period of time or eating a large amount at once is not beneficial for the body and can cause adverse reactions.

Why You Shouldn't Eat Uncooked Edamame

Firstly, edamame contains a large amount of protein, which is easier for the body to absorb after being cooked and softened. Eating uncooked edamame will increase the burden on the digestive system and can cause symptoms such as indigestion. Secondly, edamame belongs to the legume vegetable family and contains a toxic protein called hemagglutinin, which can cause the aggregation of red blood cells in the blood. Ingesting it can lead to discomfort. Lastly, edamame contains a toxic protein called trypsin inhibitor, which inhibits the activity of trypsin and can cause pancreatic enlargement. These harmful substances in edamame lose their activity after being cooked, so it is safe to consume only when it is cooked.

What Happens if You Eat Uncooked Edamame?

The symptoms and reactions from eating uncooked edamame may vary. Eating a small amount may not cause any discomfort, but it could result in bloating, diarrhea, or other gastrointestinal discomfort. Drinking plenty of water and resting can help alleviate these symptoms. However, consuming a large amount of uncooked edamame can lead to toxicity because it contains substances that can cause poisoning in the body. If severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, or other discomfort occur, it is necessary to induce vomiting and seek medical attention promptly.

How Long to Cook Edamame

To cook edamame, bring a pot of water to a boil and then cook for about 10 minutes. If cooking a larger quantity, adjust the time accordingly. You can also add some Sichuan peppercorns, star anise, and salt for seasoning. Salted boiled edamame is a perfect snack for cooling down and relaxing.