How long after eating prawns should one wait before eating watermelon?

Feb 21, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yu Yongchao

Introduction

Prawn is rich in protein and requires a relatively longer time for digestion. It usually takes about two hours for initial digestion in the stomach before entering the small intestine. If watermelon is consumed immediately after eating prawn, the water and sugar content in the watermelon may complicate the gastric environment, potentially interfering with the digestion of prawn and possibly causing discomfort such as bloating and stomach pain.

Generally, it is recommended to wait 2 hours after consuming prawns before eating watermelon. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Prawns are rich in protein and require a certain amount of time for digestion, usually about 2 hours for initial digestion in the stomach before entering the small intestine. If you eat watermelon immediately after eating prawns, the water and sugar content in the watermelon may complicate the gastric environment, possibly interfering with the digestion of prawns and easily causing discomfort such as bloating and stomach pain.

An interval of 2 hours allows sufficient time for the digestion and absorption of nutrients such as protein in prawns. After this, when watermelon is consumed, its vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients can be better absorbed by the body, avoiding mutual interference during digestion and improving nutrient absorption efficiency. Moreover, prawns are high-protein food, and watermelon is considered a cold food. Consuming large amounts of both in a short period may lead to indigestion, diarrhea, and other issues. A 2-hour interval can reduce this risk, allowing the gastrointestinal tract enough time to adapt to the digestive requirements of different foods and maintaining normal digestive function.

To ensure proper digestion and avoid food-related discomfort, it is recommended to wait an appropriate amount of time after eating prawns before consuming watermelon.

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Can prawns be eaten with eggs?

Prawn (Jiwei shrimp) is rich in high-quality protein, minerals, and vitamins, while eggs also contain high-quality protein along with various vitamins and minerals. For most people, prawns and eggs can be consumed together. Eating them appropriately can provide abundant nutrition and enhance the body's immunity. The combination of prawns and eggs offers a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

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Can patients with allergic rhinitis eat prawns?

Under normal circumstances, patients with allergic rhinitis can consume whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei), but it is not recommended during severe episodes of the condition. Whiteleg shrimp is a nutrient-rich seafood; if the allergic rhinitis is relatively mild, patients may consume it in moderation. Generally, eating whiteleg shrimp will not negatively affect the condition and can provide essential nutrients such as protein and minerals, thus helping to meet the body's nutritional needs.