Why Does Lychee Cause Internal Heat?
In the midst of summer, the crystal-clear lychees are always irresistible. However, many people often experience symptoms like oral ulcers and swollen gums after indulging in them, which are known as "internal heat" symptoms. What exactly causes this sweet dilemma? We have invited nutrition experts to delve into the mechanism behind the relationship between lychees and internal heat.
The Three Major Causes of Internal Heat from Lychees
High Sugar Content Causes Osmotic Pressure Imbalance
Lychee flesh contains 15-20% sugar, with glucose accounting for over 60%. Excess sugar left in the mouth creates a hypertonic environment, leading to dehydration of mucosal cells and forming small wounds. This makes it easy for oral bacteria to invade, causing ulcers and other inflammatory reactions. It is recommended to consume no more than 10 lychees at a time and immediately drink 200ml of water to dilute the sugar.
Special Protein Triggers Allergic Reactions
The lychee peel contains allergens such as lychee acid, and the profilin protein in the flesh may trigger an immune response. Clinical data shows that about 3% of the population may experience symptoms such as skin redness and papules after consumption. It is recommended for first-time eaters to try 1-2 lychees and observe for 24 hours before eating normally.
Nutritional Imbalance Aggravates Metabolic Disorders
Excessive consumption (over 500g per day) can lead to increased satiety, affecting the intake of B vitamins. Research shows that 100g of lychee contains only 0.06mg of vitamin B2, far below the daily requirement of 1.3mg. It is recommended to pair lychees with foods rich in B vitamins such as lean meat and egg yolks, or take a complex vitamin supplement after meals.
Four Rules for Eating Lychees Scientifically
Three-Step Hydration Strategy
Drink 100ml of light salt water before eating, pair with chrysanthemum tea during meals, and drink 200ml of coconut water one hour after eating. This triple hydration strategy can effectively maintain fluid balance and reduce blood sugar fluctuations.
Golden Combination
Pair lychees with mangosteen in a 3:1 ratio, as the xanthone in mangosteen can neutralize the heat of lychees. Alternatively, make a smoothie with lychee flesh and mint leaves to use the cooling properties of menthol to balance the heat.
Time Control Method
Avoid eating on an empty stomach, with the best time being one hour after meals. Do not eat after 9 pm to prevent fructose accumulation from affecting metabolism. Special populations (pregnant women, diabetics) should limit their daily intake to 5 lychees.
Emergency Response Plan
When internal heat symptoms occur, boil 10g of honeysuckle and 5g of licorice in water and drink as tea. Combine this with pressing the Hegu point (tiger's mouth) for 3 minutes per time, three times a day, to quickly relieve oral discomfort.
While lychees are beautiful, it is even more important to know how to enjoy them scientifically. Mastering these practical techniques can not only allow you to enjoy the sweetness of the fruit from Lingnan but also skillfully avoid health risks. It is recommended to keep the daily intake within 200g, paired with a balanced diet, to truly make this summer sweetness a healthful delicacy.