Which patients with what diseases should not eat Swiss chard?

For most people, consuming Swiss chard is safe. However, individuals with certain medical conditions should avoid or limit their intake of Swiss chard, including those with kidney stones, renal insufficiency, gout, peptic ulcers, or thyroid disorders. Specific explanations are as follows:

1. Patients with kidney stones: Swiss chard contains a relatively high amount of oxalate, which can easily bind with calcium in the body to form calcium oxalate stones. Consuming Swiss chard may exacerbate stone formation, worsen the condition, increase the risk of stone recurrence or urinary obstruction, and hinder disease management.

2. Patients with renal insufficiency: Swiss chard is rich in potassium. Individuals with impaired kidney function have reduced ability to excrete potassium. Consumption may lead to potassium accumulation in the body, causing hyperkalemia, which could result in arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and other symptoms that threaten health.

3. Gout patients: Swiss chard is considered a moderate-purine food. Purines are metabolized into uric acid in the body. For individuals with gout or hyperuricemia, eating Swiss chard may elevate blood uric acid levels, trigger acute gout attacks, and worsen symptoms such as joint redness, swelling, and pain.

4. Patients with peptic ulcers: Swiss chard contains a large amount of dietary fiber and has a relatively coarse texture. Since patients with peptic ulcers already have damaged gastric mucosa, consuming this vegetable may irritate the ulcer site, aggravate gastrointestinal discomfort (such as stomach pain and acid reflux), impair ulcer healing, and prolong the course of illness.

5. Patients with thyroid dysfunction: Swiss chard contains small amounts of goitrogenic substances that may interfere with the thyroid's ability to utilize iodine. In individuals with hypothyroidism or goiter, consumption may disrupt thyroid hormone synthesis, worsen symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, and compromise disease stability.

In daily diets, if an individual has a mild condition and a genuine desire to consume Swiss chard, they should first consult a physician or dietitian, try small amounts cautiously, and monitor their body's response. For healthy individuals, it is recommended to blanch Swiss chard before consumption to reduce its oxalate content, thereby minimizing potential health risks and ensuring dietary safety.