Health & Life

Does Eating Water Spinach Cause Keloid Scars?

Water spinach, a popular vegetable in Vietnamese cuisine, has sparked concerns among some individuals who believe that consuming it can cause wounds to develop into keloids. But is there any truth to this claim?

Administrator

28 July, 2024

Can eating water spinach cause keloid scars?

According to scientist and medical herbalist Bui Dac Sang (VASS, Hanoi Oriental Medicine Association), eating water spinach can indeed lead to keloid scars for individuals with open wounds. Traditional belief holds that water spinach is a cooling food, and consuming it can result in unsightly scarring once a wound has healed. Additionally, it is said to increase the likelihood of itchy new skin growth.

In reality, numerous people have experienced such issues when eating water spinach while having open wounds.

However, there is a lack of scientific research definitively supporting this claim. Moreover, the formation of keloid scars is also dependent on one’s constitution and the use of post-surgical recovery medications.

Can eating water spinach before a wound has healed cause keloid scars?

Mr. Sang advises that those with open wounds can refrain from consuming water spinach. Instead, they may opt for milder vegetables such as water dropwort, pennywort, mustard greens, fish mint, and onions to expedite wound healing. Additionally, incorporating fish and fruits into the diet can boost immunity and accelerate recovery.

1. Select Fresh and Clean Water Spinach

Choose water spinach with vibrant green leaves, free from wilting, discoloration, or signs of pest infestation.
Avoid purchasing water spinach with an unpleasant odor or indications of pesticide residue.

2. Thoroughly Wash the Water Spinach

Rinse the water spinach under running water to remove dirt, sand, and bacteria.
Soak the vegetable in a dilute salt solution for 15-20 minutes to eliminate any remaining parasites and chemical residues.

3. Cook Thoroughly

Ensure the water spinach is thoroughly cooked to eradicate harmful bacteria and parasites that may pose health risks.
Refrain from consuming raw or undercooked water spinach to prevent bacterial infections or parasitic infestations.

4. Limit Consumption When Having Open Wounds

Water spinach may stimulate pus formation and cause inflammation in individuals with open wounds.
It is advisable to reduce water spinach intake to prevent infection and promote wound healing.

Precautions when consuming water spinach

5. Avoid if You Have Gout or Kidney Stones

Water spinach contains high levels of purines, which can elevate uric acid levels in the body and trigger gout attacks.
Individuals with a history of gout or kidney stones should limit their intake of water spinach to prevent exacerbating their condition.

6. Exercise Caution When Taking Medications

Water spinach may interact with certain medications, reducing their effectiveness or causing adverse reactions.
If you are undergoing medical treatment, consult your doctor before including water spinach in your diet.

7. Be Mindful of Allergies

Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to water spinach, manifesting as itching, rashes, or difficulty breathing.
If you have a history of food allergies, it is advisable to perform a small patch test before consuming water spinach to gauge your body’s response.

Water spinach is a nutritious food, but to ensure your health and safety, it is crucial to be mindful of its selection, cleaning, and cooking. By adhering to the aforementioned precautions, you can confidently enjoy the flavor and nutritional benefits of water spinach while maintaining your well-being.

Frequently asked questions

No, there is no scientific evidence that directly links the consumption of water spinach to the formation of keloid scars. The article mentions a case study where an individual developed keloids after regularly consuming water spinach, but it is important to note that keloids can form due to a variety of factors and triggers, and the exact cause is often unknown.

Keloid scars are a type of raised, fibrous scar tissue that can form when the body produces too much collagen during the wound healing process. Keloids can occur anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the chest, back, shoulders, and earlobes. They can be itchy, painful, and aesthetically undesirable for some people.

Water spinach, or Ipomoea aquatica, is a leafy vegetable commonly consumed in Asian cuisine. It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Water spinach has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including digestive issues, high blood pressure, and skin infections. However, it is important to consume it in moderation as excessive intake may have potential side effects.

While water spinach is generally safe to consume, some potential side effects may include an increased risk of kidney stones due to its high oxalate content. Additionally, individuals with a history of allergies to plants in the Convolvulaceae family (which includes water spinach) may experience allergic reactions such as itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing.

Water spinach can be prepared in a variety of ways, including steaming, stir-frying, or boiling. It is commonly used in soups, curries, and stir-fries. When preparing water spinach, it is important to wash the leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides. You can also blanch the leaves briefly in boiling water to soften them and reduce their slight bitterness.