Can people with diabetes drink Poria, Euryale seed, and Coix seed decoction?

Jul 03, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Pan Yongyuan

Introduction

People with diabetes may drink a decoction made from Poria (Fuling), Euryale seed (Qianshi), and Coix seed (Yi Yi Ren). Diabetic patients may consume small amounts of Poria. Poria helps strengthen the spleen, resolve dampness, transform phlegm, calm the mind, and promote restful sleep. Its primary active constituents do not directly regulate blood glucose levels; however, since Poria contains a small amount of natural sugars, diabetic patients are advised against consuming it in large quantities. Coix seed decoction promotes diuresis and is used to reduce edema, strengthen the spleen, resolve dampness, clear heat, drain pus, and alleviate symptoms such as rheumatic pain and generalized edema.

Poria cocos (Fu Ling) has a bland, sweet taste and is traditionally used to strengthen the Spleen, resolve Dampness, transform Phlegm, calm the mind, and promote diuresis. It is commonly prescribed for individuals with Spleen deficiency complicated by Phlegm-Dampness, edema, restlessness, or poor sleep quality. Can people with diabetes consume a decoction made from Poria cocos, Euryale ferox (Qian Shi), and Coix seed (Yi Yi Ren)?

Can People with Diabetes Consume a Decoction of Poria Cocos, Euryale Ferox, and Coix Seed?

Yes, people with diabetes may consume a decoction of Poria cocos, Euryale ferox, and Coix seed—but in moderation. Diabetic patients may ingest small amounts of Poria cocos, which helps strengthen the Spleen, resolve Dampness, transform Phlegm, and calm the mind. While its primary active constituents do not directly regulate blood glucose levels, Poria cocos does contain trace amounts of carbohydrates; therefore, excessive intake is not recommended for diabetic patients. Coix seed possesses diuretic properties and is traditionally used to reduce swelling, strengthen the Spleen, resolve Dampness, clear Heat, drain pus, alleviate rheumatic conditions, relieve body aches, and reduce edema. It is rich in B vitamins, vitamin C, and trace elements, and contains only minimal sugar—making it suitable for limited consumption by diabetic patients. When blood glucose levels are well-controlled, Euryale ferox—which is high in dietary fiber—may also be consumed in moderation, as dietary fiber supports glycemic control.

Poria cocos contains only trace amounts of sugar; thus, modest intake exerts negligible impact on blood glucose. Diabetic patients may take it in small quantities, but large doses may elevate blood glucose and are therefore discouraged. When using Poria cocos, it may be combined with other herbs depending on the individual’s pattern diagnosis. For instance, in cases of Spleen deficiency with Damp obstruction—characterized by fatigue, drowsiness, poor appetite, a heavy sensation in the body, and greasy tongue coating—it may be prepared as a congee together with Chinese yam (Shan Yao) and Coix seed to strengthen the Spleen and resolve Dampness.

For diabetic patients presenting with excessive white phlegm, Poria cocos may be combined with dried tangerine peel (Chen Pi) decoction to enhance phlegm-resolving effects. In cases of edema, Poria cocos may be taken alongside a decoction of Plantago asiatica (Che Qian Cao) to promote diuresis and reduce swelling. We hope this article has been helpful. Wishing you joy in daily life and optimal health!

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Can people with diabetes drink coix seed and foxnut tea?

Patients with diabetes may drink moderate amounts of Coix seed and Euryale seed tea. Coix seed is a traditional Chinese herb used to resolve dampness and is commonly employed to treat edema, spleen deficiency, and diarrhea caused by damp pathogenic factors. Euryale seed tonifies the kidneys and strengthens the spleen while also exerting an astringent effect to consolidate essence and arrest diarrhea. Combined, these herbs not only nourish Qi and blood and promote blood circulation to remove stasis but also strengthen the spleen and resolve dampness, as well as tonify the kidneys.

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Can people with diabetes consume red bean, coix seed, and fox nut porridge?

People with diabetes may consume adzuki bean and coix seed porridge in moderation, but should avoid consuming it in large quantities or over prolonged periods. Long-term, excessive consumption of this porridge by individuals with diabetes may lead to abnormal elevations in blood glucose levels and impaired glucose tolerance. Therefore, it is not recommended for people with diabetes to consume adzuki bean and coix seed porridge, as it may disrupt carbohydrate metabolism and lipid metabolism, potentially resulting in endocrine disorders and other directly related clinical conditions.

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Can you eat lotus seeds during pregnancy?

Pregnant women can generally consume lotus seeds (Euryale ferox, commonly known as "qian shi"). Lotus seeds not only possess pharmacological effects but also contain abundant nutrients. They typically do not contain substances or exhibit effects that could negatively affect pregnant women, so they are usually safe to eat. Consuming lotus seeds can not only help supplement nutrition and promote the development of fetal organs, but also strengthen the spleen, stimulate appetite, and thereby contribute positively to overall health.