Can tangyuan (glutinous rice balls) and eggs be eaten together?
Jun 16, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, glutinous rice balls (tangyuan) and eggs can be eaten together, but it is not recommended to consume them in large quantities. However, there are some precautions to take when consuming them together. Glutinous rice balls are sticky and not easily digested, excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, especially for individuals with weak digestive systems, who should control their intake. Similarly, excessive egg consumption can increase the burden on the kidneys.
Generally speaking, glutinous rice balls (tangyuan) and eggs can be eaten together, but it is not recommended to consume them in large quantities. The detailed explanation is as follows:
The main ingredient of tangyuan is glutinous rice flour, which is rich in carbohydrates and can quickly provide energy to the body. It also has a soft, sticky, and sweet texture. Eggs, on the other hand, are an excellent source of high-quality protein and also contain various vitamins and minerals that help maintain normal body metabolism, promote growth and development, and enhance immunity. Combining the two can make a meal's nutritional structure more balanced.
However, there are some precautions to take when consuming them together. Tangyuan are sticky and not easily digested; excessive consumption may cause excessive burden on the gastrointestinal tract, particularly for individuals with weak digestion, who should control their intake. Similarly, excessive egg consumption can burden the kidneys. Additionally, since both items are high in calories, it is advisable to reduce intake of other staple foods to avoid excessive calorie consumption. During eating, one should chew slowly and thoroughly to prevent the tangyuan from sticking to the esophagus and causing difficulty swallowing, especially for elderly individuals and children, who should exercise extra caution.
