18 Jul 2024

"The King of Fruits" - The Dilemma of Durian

– The information has been reviewed by Nursing Officer of the Outpatient Department, Phoebe Lai
Durian

As we enter the summer, supermarkets and markets are filled with the fragrance of durian. Most people only know that durian is the "King of Fruits" and one of the must-eat fruits in the summer. However, do you know the precautions and taboos when consuming durian? Let's discuss them today.

In 2022, a 24-year-old Thai man died after consuming durian with beer. Research has found that the sulfur compounds in durian can inhibit the breakdown of alcohol toxins, leading to alcohol poisoning. Additionally, if durian is consumed with milk, crab, seafood, etc., it can cause indigestion, abdominal pain, and even severe diarrhea. Furthermore, the caffeine in cola and the large amount of potassium in durian can have a chemical reaction, accelerating the functioning of the heart and brain. Durian also has a high sugar content, which can put an extremely heavy load on the heart, increasing the risk of vascular blockage or arrhythmia and even sudden cardiac death.

Furthermore, some people are not suitable for consuming durian. It can cause skin itching in mild cases, and in severe cases, it can be life-threatening.

  1. Patients with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases:
    Durian is one of the fruits with the highest carbohydrate and fat content, so its calorie content is also one of the highest among fruits. Frequent or excessive consumption can lead to vascular blockage and, in severe cases, can even cause vascular rupture and stroke.
  2. Diabetics:
    Durian has a high sugar content and belongs to the high glycemic index fruits, which can easily affect blood sugar levels. Diabetic patients should avoid consuming durian.
  3. Patients with kidney disease or poor kidney function:
    Durian is rich in potassium, but people with poor kidney function cannot excrete excess potassium effectively. Therefore, those with such issues should be mindful of their durian consumption.
  4. Patients with skin diseases:
    If the body constitution tends to be "hot," such as being sensitive to heat, prone to constipation, dry mouth, preferring heat over cold, or having unexplained itchy skin or acne, consuming "hot" fruits like durian and lychee can promote the secretion of histamine, leading to sensitive and itchy skin.

The old saying goes, "Eat less but enjoy more; eat more, and it will upset the stomach." No matter how much you like food or how delicious it is, you should know when to stop and avoid overconsumption.

 

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