What should betel nut not be consumed with?
Disease description:
I live in Hunan, where betel quid is commonly consumed, and I also eat some myself. However, I feel there are many taboos associated with it. I would like to ask, what should not be consumed together with betel nut?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Areca nut is generally not recommended to be taken with the following foods or medications:
1. Spicy foods: Such as chili peppers, vinegar, garlic, etc. Consuming these foods together with areca nut may increase irritation to the mouth and gastrointestinal tract, potentially causing oral ulcers, gastrointestinal discomfort, and similar issues.
2. Alcoholic beverages: Taking areca nut together with alcohol may lead to elevated blood pressure, which is harmful to the body.
3. Medications: Some components in areca nut might also affect drug metabolism. Particularly when taken with antihypertensive drugs, antidepressants, or sleeping pills, it may reduce drug effectiveness or increase side effects. For example, combining areca nut with certain antidepressants may lead to serotonin syndrome, characterized by anxiety, agitation, muscle rigidity, and other symptoms.
4. Caffeine: Areca nut should not be consumed together with caffeine-containing foods such as coffee, tea, chocolate, etc., to avoid increasing the burden on the heart and triggering problems such as palpitations and insomnia.
5. High-sugar foods: Chewing areca nut stimulates saliva production. Consuming it together with high-sugar foods may increase bacterial activity in the mouth, thereby exacerbating the risk of oral diseases such as gingivitis and dental caries.
