Why can't babies eat luffa (sponge gourd)?
Jun 28, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
There is generally no rule that babies cannot eat luffa (sponge gourd), but some infants may be advised against consuming it due to incomplete digestive system development, susceptibility to allergies, potential pesticide residue, improper cooking making it difficult to chew, or individual specific body constitutions. Particularly for babies under 6 months old, their gastrointestinal digestive function is weak and digestive enzyme secretion is insufficient.
Generally, there is no rule that babies cannot eat luffa (sponge gourd), but some infants may not be advised to consume it due to incomplete digestive system development, potential allergenicity, pesticide residue risks, improper cooking making it difficult to chew, or individual specific body constitutions. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Incomplete Digestive Function: Particularly for infants under six months old, gastrointestinal digestive functions are weak and digestive enzyme secretion is insufficient. Luffa contains a certain amount of dietary fiber, which may be difficult for infants with underdeveloped intestinal functions to fully digest, potentially causing gastrointestinal discomfort, such as abdominal distension and indigestion.
2. Potential Allergenicity: Luffa contains proteins and other components that may act as allergens. Infants' immune systems are not fully developed, and allergic reactions may occur after consumption, manifesting as skin redness, itching, or respiratory symptoms such as coughing and wheezing; in severe cases, it may even affect breathing.
3. Risk of Pesticide Residue: Pesticides may be used during luffa cultivation. If not thoroughly washed, residual pesticides may be ingested by infants. Babies have poor detoxification abilities, and even small amounts of pesticide residue may affect health and damage liver and kidney function.
4. Improper Preparation Makes It Difficult to Chew: If luffa is not fully cooked or processed into an appropriate form, its texture may be too hard for babies with incomplete tooth development and weak chewing ability, making it difficult to chew and swallow. This not only affects the eating experience but may also pose a choking hazard.
5. Individual Special Constitution: Some babies may have special constitutions, including intolerance to plants of the gourd family. Luffa belongs to the gourd family, and infants with such special constitutions may experience gastrointestinal discomfort symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea even after normal cooking and moderate consumption.
When introducing luffa as a complementary food to infants, it should be done only after the baby is six months old and has a relatively mature digestive system. Start with a small amount, observe for any allergic or adverse reactions, ensure the ingredient is thoroughly washed, fully cooked, and processed into a fine texture suitable for the baby's swallowing ability. If any abnormalities occur, stop feeding immediately and consult a doctor.
