Which Three Types of People Should Avoid Eating Pomegranates?

Generally speaking, there is no such saying as "which three types of people cannot eat pomegranate." However, individuals allergic to pomegranate, those with weak gastrointestinal function, diabetic patients, patients with hyperthyroidism, and those with kidney insufficiency are advised not to consume pomegranate. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Individuals allergic to pomegranate: After consuming pomegranate, the immune system of these individuals identifies specific proteins in pomegranate as harmful substances, triggering an allergic reaction. Common symptoms include itching of the oral mucosa, red rashes on facial skin, swollen eyelids, and some people may experience abdominal pain and diarrhea. Severe reactions may lead to throat swelling and difficulty breathing.

2. People with weak gastrointestinal function: Those with weak gastrointestinal function, such as individuals suffering from chronic enteritis, gastroesophageal reflux, or frequent indigestion, may find that eating pomegranate irritates the gastrointestinal mucosa due to its tannic acid and fruit acid content. This can worsen gastrointestinal motility disorders, potentially causing bloating, abdominal pain, acid reflux, and may also lead to constipation or exacerbate existing constipation symptoms due to the combination of tannic acid with proteins in the stomach, forming indigestible substances.

3. Diabetic patients: Pomegranate contains natural fructose and glucose. If diabetic patients consume pomegranate indiscriminately or excessively, it may cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels within a short time, which is not conducive to maintaining stable blood glucose levels. Particularly for patients with poor glycemic control, pomegranate consumption may increase the risk of complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis and diabetic nephropathy.

4. Patients with hyperthyroidism: Pomegranate contains a certain amount of thiocyanate, a substance that can interfere with the thyroid's uptake and utilization of iodine, affecting the synthesis of thyroid hormones. Patients with hyperthyroidism already have excessive secretion of thyroid hormones, and consuming pomegranate may worsen thyroid dysfunction, hinder disease management, and even lead to exacerbated symptoms such as palpitations, hand tremors, and excessive sweating.

5. Patients with kidney insufficiency: Patients with impaired kidney function have reduced filtration and metabolic capabilities. The potassium content in pomegranate needs to be excreted through the kidneys. Excessive consumption of pomegranate may lead to potassium accumulation in the body, increasing the risk of hyperkalemia, which may cause symptoms such as arrhythmia and limb weakness. In severe cases, it may worsen kidney damage and affect kidney function recovery.

These groups of people should be clear about their dietary restrictions to avoid physical discomfort caused by consuming pomegranate. Other individuals should also control their intake when consuming pomegranate, avoiding excessive consumption at one time. It is also recommended to rinse the mouth promptly after consumption to prevent acidic substances in pomegranate juice from damaging tooth enamel, ensuring dietary safety.