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What are the side effects of fresh lotus seeds?

Aug 07, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
The side effects of fresh lotus seeds generally include harming the spleen and stomach due to their cold nature, abdominal distension from excessive consumption, and potential allergic reactions. Fresh lotus seeds are inherently cold in property; individuals with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold who consume them in excess may experience increased internal coldness, leading to discomfort such as cold abdominal pain and diarrhea. Additionally, fresh lotus seeds contain significant amounts of starch and dietary fiber. Eating too many at once can increase the digestive burden on the gastrointestinal tract, potentially causing symptoms such as abdominal distension and belching.

　　The common side effects of consuming fresh lotus seeds include damaging the spleen and stomach due to their cold nature, abdominal distension from excessive consumption, triggering allergies, worsening constipation, and impairing digestion. Detailed explanations are as follows:

　　1. Cold nature harming spleen and stomach: Fresh lotus seeds are naturally cold in nature. Individuals with spleen or stomach deficiency-cold may experience increased internal coldness after excessive consumption, leading to discomfort such as abdominal cold pain and diarrhea.

　　2. Abdominal distension from overconsumption: Fresh lotus seeds contain significant amounts of starch and dietary fiber. Eating too many at once can increase the digestive burden on the gastrointestinal tract, easily causing symptoms such as abdominal distension and belching.

　　3. Triggering allergies: Some individuals are sensitive to certain components in fresh lotus seeds. Consumption may lead to allergic reactions such as skin rashes and itching, so caution is advised.

　　4. Worsening constipation: The lotus seed embryo (li Xin) contains certain astringent components. If consumed in large amounts, it may slow intestinal motility, which is unfavorable for individuals already suffering from constipation.

　　5. Impaired digestion: For individuals with weak gastrointestinal function, the starch contained in fresh lotus seeds may be difficult to digest quickly, leading to food stagnation and affecting the normal digestive process.

　　When consuming fresh lotus seeds, it is important to control the quantity. Those with spleen or stomach deficiency-cold are advised to remove the lotus seed embryo (li Xin) before consuming small amounts. If discomfort occurs after consumption, stop immediately and observe; seek medical attention promptly if symptoms persist or worsen.

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Under normal circumstances, the effects and benefits of lotus seeds mainly include nourishing the heart and calming the mind, strengthening the spleen and stopping diarrhea, benefiting the kidneys and consolidating essence, providing nutritional supplementation, and moistening the lungs to relieve coughing. When consuming lotus seeds, fresh lotus seeds can be eaten directly but should not be consumed in excess to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort. Dried lotus seeds should be soaked in advance before consumption and cooked until tender for easier digestion.
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What are the functions and benefits of fresh lotus seeds?
Under normal circumstances, as a food with both medicinal and dietary properties, fresh lotus seeds mainly have functions including nourishing the spleen and stomach, calming the mind, clearing heat and reducing internal heat, providing nutrients, and lubricating the intestines to relieve constipation. When consuming fresh lotus seeds, one should choose mature and plump fruits and remove the lotus core. They can be eaten raw directly or cooked in porridge or soup. Combining them with other ingredients can better enhance their nutritional benefits.
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Are fresh lotus seeds helpful for weakness of the spleen and stomach?
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In general, fresh lotus seeds can help improve anemia to some extent, but they should be consumed in moderation. When using fresh lotus seeds to assist in improving anemia, select mature, unspoiled seeds, remove the germ before consumption to avoid bitterness affecting appetite; control the amount consumed, avoiding excessive intake at one time to prevent increased digestive burden; and use mild cooking methods.
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