Which patients should not eat rooster as it is considered a "trigger food"?

Nov 14, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, rooster meat is considered a "trigger food" and is not recommended for patients with conditions such as colds, fever, excessive liver fire, hypertension, high blood lipids, or stroke. It is advised that patients with these conditions follow medical guidance regarding their diet, avoid consuming rooster meat and other stimulating foods, and instead eat more light, easily digestible foods such as fresh vegetables and fruits to enhance immunity and support recovery.

Generally, rooster is considered a "trigger food" that may aggravate certain health conditions. Patients with colds and fever, excessive liver fire, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or stroke are advised against consuming rooster meat. The specific reasons are as follows:

1. Colds and Fever

During a cold or fever, the body's vital energy is focused on fighting off pathogens at the surface, leaving internal systems relatively weak. Consuming rooster meat at this time may worsen symptoms such as fever and cough, hindering recovery. Due to its property of promoting internal heat, rooster meat may trigger pre-existing conditions or exacerbate cold symptoms.

2. Excessive Liver Fire

Individuals with excessive liver fire often experience irritability, dry and itchy eyes, dizziness, headaches, and poor sleep. The warming nature of rooster meat may further intensify liver fire, worsening these symptoms.

3. Hypertension

The warming and yang-stimulating properties of rooster meat may cause blood pressure to rise, making it harder for hypertensive patients to manage their condition. Although rooster meat contains relatively low fat, excessive consumption can still have adverse effects on individuals with high blood pressure.

4. Hyperlipidemia

Rooster meat contains a certain amount of fat. Consumption by patients with hyperlipidemia may lead to fluctuations in blood lipid levels, undermining stable lipid control. These patients should avoid high-fat foods to prevent further elevation of blood lipids.

5. Stroke

In stroke patients, blood vessels in the brain are already damaged. Eating rooster meat may increase the risk of elevated blood lipids and atherosclerosis, thereby worsening the condition. The high protein and fat content in rooster meat may raise lipid levels, accelerate atherosclerosis, and further increase the risk of stroke.

Therefore, patients with the above conditions are advised to follow medical guidance in adjusting their diet, avoiding stimulative foods such as rooster meat, and instead consuming more light, easily digestible foods like fresh vegetables and fruits to strengthen immunity and support recovery.