Is It Better to Eat Lotus Seeds With or Without the Hearts?

There is no clear distinction between lotus seeds with or without their cores; they are both good options for regular consumption. Lotus seeds can help clear heat, reduce blood pressure, promote calm sleep, and strengthen kidney function. Consuming them regularly is beneficial for health. The lotus seed core also has the effects of clearing the heart and eliminating irritability, as well as clearing heat and relieving summer heat, which is also good for health. Both lotus seeds and their cores can be used to make soup or porridge, and consumption helps improve bodily conditions. However, the lotus seed core tastes bitter, so if you cannot tolerate the bitter taste, you may remove it. If you experience abnormal symptoms such as palpitations, fatigue, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, irritability, or elevated blood pressure, do not attempt to alleviate them through dietary therapy alone. Instead, promptly visit a formal hospital for examination and receive targeted and effective treatment under a doctor's guidance. You should also adjust your diet by consuming lightly flavored foods such as pumpkin porridge and millet porridge. Certain special groups, such as those with dry and hard stool or spleen deficiency with loose stool, should avoid lotus seeds and their cores as they may exacerbate their symptoms. If you experience any abnormal physical conditions after consuming lotus seeds or their cores, seek medical attention promptly for diagnosis.