Health & Life

Who should avoid eating clams?

Clams are a popular seafood choice with high nutritional value that many people enjoy. However, there are individuals who should avoid consuming them due to various reasons.

Administrator

22 February, 2024

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Nutritional Value of Clams

Clams are highly recommended seafood. They contain vitamin B12, which is good for memory, and vitamin C, which aids in wound healing. In addition, clams are rich in important minerals such as iron, potassium, and calcium, which contribute to overall health and disease prevention.

Along with crabs, shrimp, and fish, clams are one of the richest sources of selenium. Selenium is an essential nutrient that works together with other nutrients to combat oxidative stress, an imbalance that can lead to joint and bone damage.

Although clams are highly nutritious, there are certain individuals who should avoid consuming them.

Who should avoid eating clams?

Individuals with gout

Patients with gout are advised to limit their consumption of clam-based dishes, as they are detrimental to their health. Clams contain high levels of purines, which are broken down into uric acid and are a primary cause of gout.

Individuals with digestive disorders

Foods with a cooling nature, such as clams, are delicious but can cause stomach discomfort, making them unsuitable for individuals with digestive disorders. Adding fresh ginger to clam dishes can help minimize the risk of harmful side effects.

Individuals with allergies

Many people are allergic to seafood and experience allergies after consuming them. These individuals are often sensitive to the proteins found in seafood. Allergic reactions to clams may include skin inflammation, digestive disorders, etc. If any of these symptoms occur after consuming clams, it is best to stop consuming them and seek appropriate medical treatment.

Individuals with liver disease

Patients with impaired liver function often have difficulties eliminating excess copper from their bodies, as their organs struggle to remove the excess copper. Clams and other seafood that contain high levels of copper can damage the liver, kidneys, and brain, resulting in symptoms such as unsteady gait, slurred speech, tremors, jaundice, and abdominal swelling.

Individuals with kidney disease

Seafood such as clams, mussels, and oysters have a salty and cool nature. Patients with kidney disease, who already have weak digestive systems, should avoid consuming excessive amounts of these foods to prevent any negative effects on their health.

Individuals with gastric pain

In traditional Chinese medicine, clams are considered a cool food, so individuals suffering from gastric pain should avoid consuming them, as they may exacerbate the condition. If you still want to consume these seafood, you can consider adding fresh ginger, a warming spice, to neutralize the cooling properties of the food.

Furthermore, when consuming clams, there are certain things to keep in mind:

Avoid consuming in winter for young children

Clams are nutritious and provide essential nutrients for children’s bodies. However, according to nutritionists, clams have cooling properties and are best consumed during the summer, as they are not suitable for winter consumption.

Consuming these foods in cold weather can lead to internal coldness and cause diarrhea.

Avoid consuming with vitamin C-rich foods

After consuming clams, it is recommended not to consume foods high in vitamin C, as it can lead to toxicity.

This is because clams often contain high levels of pentavalent arsenic. Although this substance is not harmful to the body, consuming it in large quantities along with vitamin C-rich foods can be detrimental to health.

Pentavalent arsenic can be converted into arsenic trioxide, which is acutely toxic. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening.

Avoid consuming with beer

When consuming a large amount of clams, many individuals tend to pair them with beer. However, it is advised not to consume clams with beer.

This combination can accelerate the formation of excess uric acid in the joints or soft tissues, leading to conditions such as gout and joint and soft tissue inflammation, which are harmful to health.

Avoid consuming fruits

After consuming clams and other seafood, it is best to avoid consuming fruits, as it can cause abdominal pain.

Fruits can affect the absorption of protein and calcium from seafood in the body. The tannin content in fruits, when combined with protein and calcium, can form insoluble calcium, which stimulates the digestive tract and can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Clams do not naturally produce toxins. However, certain types of algae found in clams and other mollusks contain toxins that cannot be eliminated even through thorough cooking, making it possible for consumers to be poisoned.

Frequently asked questions

People with allergies to shellfish should avoid eating clams as it can trigger an allergic reaction. Those with compromised immune systems or certain medical conditions like diabetes, liver disease or kidney problems may also need to refrain from consuming clams due to potential health risks.

Clams, if consumed raw or undercooked, may carry bacteria and viruses that can cause illnesses such as Vibriosis and Norovirus. Additionally, clams can accumulate toxins and contaminants from their environment, which can be harmful to humans if consumed in significant quantities.

To minimize potential health risks, always purchase clams from reputable sources and ensure they are properly handled and stored. Cook clams thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) to kill harmful microorganisms. Individuals with compromised immune systems or certain medical conditions may need to avoid raw or undercooked clams altogether.

Clams are a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and various vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. They can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation and when properly prepared and sourced.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should exercise caution when consuming clams due to the potential presence of harmful bacteria and contaminants. It is important to cook clams thoroughly and choose sources that ensure proper handling and storage practices to minimize any risks to yourself and your baby.