Can you eat lotus seeds during pregnancy?
Mar 28, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
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.
Pregnant women can generally consume gorgon seeds (Euryale ferox), but should avoid excessive consumption to prevent indigestion. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Gorgon seeds not only have pharmacological effects such as benefiting the kidneys, consolidating essence, strengthening the spleen and stopping diarrhea, eliminating dampness and arresting leukorrhea, but also contain relatively abundant nutrients, including protein, vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, etc. They typically do not contain substances harmful to pregnant women, so they are usually safe to eat. Consuming them can help supplement nutrition, promote the development of fetal organs, improve spleen function, stimulate appetite, and contribute positively to overall health.
However, when consuming gorgon seeds, it's important to note that individuals experiencing constipation, excessive liver fire, or similar conditions should avoid them to prevent worsening of symptoms and interference with recovery.
