Experts Advise Eating No More Than 12 Litchis Per Day to Minimize Health Risks
In recent weeks, a surge in reported cases of "litchi disease" has sparked widespread concern over the consumption of litchi fruit. The condition, also known as acute low blood sugar syndrome, can cause symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, and even seizures in severe cases. Experts warn that eating excessive amounts of litchi can lead to this condition, particularly when consumed on an empty stomach. According to the Chinese Residents' Dietary Guidelines (2022), adults should limit their daily intake of litchi to approximately 300g, or around 12 fruits, while children should not exceed 5 fruits per day.
12 June 2025
Litchi disease is a form of acute hypoglycemia, which can lead to severe neurological damage if left unchecked. The condition arises when an individual consumes an excessive amount of litchis, causing a sudden and drastic drop in blood sugar levels. This, in turn, triggers a cascade of health issues. The primary culprit behind litchi disease is a unique combination of factors inherent to the fruit itself. Litchis contain a toxin that inhibits the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels, particularly in individuals who have gone without food for a prolonged period. When a person eats a large quantity of litchis on an empty stomach, the body's glycogen stores are depleted, leading to a sudden and severe drop in blood glucose levels.
This can cause symptoms such as dizziness, trembling, and in severe cases, seizures and even coma. Experts advise that limiting daily litchi intake to no more than 12 per day can significantly mitigate the risk of developing litchi disease. It's essential to understand that dietary recommendations aim to provide a balanced approach to nutrition rather than set strict upper limits for specific food items. For instance, consuming 300-500 milliliters of dairy products and eating 3-5 types of vegetables daily is recommended, but this does not imply a maximum limit.
To enjoy lychees while minimizing the risk of adverse effects, several precautions can be taken. Eating them in moderation, with a guideline suggesting no more than 10 lychees per day for adults, which corresponds to approximately 300 grams, is advisable. Avoiding eating lychees on an empty stomach or when significantly hungry, as this can exacerbate the risk of hypoglycemia, is also crucial. Eating lychees after meals or accompanied by carbohydrate-rich foods can help mitigate this risk. Incorporating foods or drinks that can help stabilize blood sugar levels, such as saltwater, cool tea, or green bean soup, and consuming lychees that have been chilled can also offer protective benefits.
For certain individuals, such as those with specific health conditions, pregnant women, and people with a predisposition to "virtual fire," a concept in traditional Chinese medicine referring to an imbalance that can lead to various symptoms, it's particularly important to be cautious with lychee consumption. In summary, while lychees are a delicious and nutritious fruit, enjoying them requires balance and awareness of potential health impacts. By being mindful of portion sizes, the timing of consumption, and individual health conditions, everyone can savor the taste of lychees while protecting their health.
Ultimately, litchis are a nutrient-rich fruit, but overconsumption can pose health risks. As we indulge in these delicious fruits, it is equally important to be mindful of our intake and maintain a balanced diet. Experts recommend that individuals limit their daily litchi consumption to no more than 12 fruits to reap their nutritional benefits while minimizing potential drawbacks. By being aware of our eating habits and practicing moderation, we can enjoy litchis as part of a healthy and varied diet, supporting our overall well-being and encouraging a responsible and sustainable relationship with the food we eat.
