Why should one avoid eating seafood when taking traditional Chinese medicine?

Nov 26, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Xiuhong

Introduction

Seafood is a common allergen, and the foreign proteins it contains may trigger allergic reactions. During the period of taking traditional Chinese medicine, a patient's body may be in a more sensitive state; consuming seafood at this time may increase the risk of allergy, leading to symptoms such as rash, itching, and swelling. In severe cases, it may even cause anaphylactic shock, endangering the patient's life.

Generally, the reasons why eating seafood while taking traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) may be discouraged include allergic reactions, reduced drug efficacy, gastrointestinal discomfort, worsening of the condition, and impaired nutrient absorption. The specific details are as follows:

1. Allergic reactions: Seafood is a common allergen, and the foreign proteins it contains may trigger allergic reactions. During TCM treatment, a patient's body may be in a more sensitive state; consuming seafood at this time may increase the risk of allergic reactions, causing symptoms such as rash, itching, and swelling. In severe cases, it may even lead to anaphylactic shock, endangering the patient's life.

2. Reduced drug efficacy: Certain components in seafood may interact with the active ingredients in TCM, thereby affecting its therapeutic effects. This could result in diminished treatment outcomes or even the occurrence of side effects, which may harm the patient's health.

3. Gastrointestinal discomfort: Both seafood and TCM may exert some degree of irritation on the gastrointestinal tract. Consuming them together may increase the burden on the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea. This is particularly detrimental for patients requiring spleen and stomach regulation or those with existing gastrointestinal disorders, as it may worsen their condition or prolong the course of illness.

4. Worsening of the condition: Seafood may stimulate the body, potentially exacerbating certain diseases or symptoms. This is especially true for patients with allergic conditions such as asthma, eczema, or urticaria, as seafood consumption may aggravate their illness, prolong the disease course, or lead to recurrent episodes.

5. Impaired nutrient absorption: Certain components in seafood may chemically react with some ingredients in TCM, forming indigestible substances that hinder the body's absorption of both the TCM components and other nutrients. This may prevent the patient from fully absorbing and utilizing the active ingredients in the TCM, thereby affecting treatment outcomes and overall health.

During TCM treatment, patients should strictly follow medical advice and maintain a well-balanced diet to ensure treatment effectiveness and safeguard their health.

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When to drink Chinese herbal medicine

The administration time of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) should be determined according to its type. For tonic TCMs, such as ginseng and astragalus, it is recommended to take them on an empty stomach in the morning or 1–2 hours after dinner, to enhance drug efficacy and achieve better therapeutic effects. For non-tonic TCMs, such as those used for promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis or clearing heat and detoxifying, it is advisable to take them half an hour after meals to reduce gastrointestinal irritation.

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What foods should be avoided when taking traditional Chinese medicine?

During the period of taking traditional Chinese medicine, it is recommended to eat less or avoid foods such as ginger, ice cream, fried dough sticks (youtiao), sea fish, and strong tea. These foods may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing discomfort such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, thereby affecting drug absorption and efficacy. However, regardless of the type of traditional Chinese medicine, it is important to consult a physician before taking it, and avoid self-medicating.

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Can I donate blood while taking traditional Chinese medicine?

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