Can you eat raw lotus seeds?
Under normal circumstances, lotus seeds can be eaten raw, but it is not recommended to consume them in large quantities. A detailed explanation is as follows:
Fresh lotus seeds have a crisp and tender texture with a naturally mild sweetness. Eating them raw helps preserve their nutritional components, such as vitamins, minerals, and various amino acids. These nutrients do not require cooking or heating, allowing them to be absorbed more completely by the body. Additionally, eating fresh lotus seeds raw offers a refreshing texture and can help quench thirst, making them a good choice for those who prefer light flavors. Moreover, fresh lotus seeds are relatively mild in nature, and moderate raw consumption does not cause significant gastrointestinal irritation, allowing individuals to directly experience the original flavor of the ingredient.
Before eating lotus seeds raw, ensure they are fresh and unspoiled, and remove the germ (lotus core); also, consumption should be moderated to avoid excessive intake at one time, which may increase digestive burden. Individuals with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold should try small amounts initially; if symptoms such as abdominal distension or diarrhea occur after consumption, they should stop immediately.