Is it safe to eat lotus root after cutting off the spoiled part?

　　Generally, lotus root should not be eaten even if only a small portion is rotten and has been cut away, as other parts may have already been contaminated with harmful substances, which can easily cause gastrointestinal discomfort after consumption.

　　When any part of the lotus root begins to rot, it indicates that spoilage has already occurred and the root likely contains a significant amount of harmful microorganisms. Since harmful microbes multiply rapidly in food, pathogenic agents invisible to the naked eye may also be present in other areas, reducing the overall nutritional value of the lotus root. Therefore, even after removing the spoiled section, residual pathogens in the remaining tissue may still lead to intestinal infections, causing abnormal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and bloating. Moreover, the lotus root has already lost its nutritional benefits and offers no positive effects on health. For these reasons, it is not recommended to consume it for the sake of one's well-being.

　　After food becomes moldy or starts to rot—even if the affected area appears small—it is still not advisable to continue eating it. If gastrointestinal discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. A proper diagnosis should be made through relevant examinations, followed by targeted treatment to improve the condition.