What should you know about the side effects of Job's tears?
Common Job's Tears - The Miracle Grain from Asia and Its Potential Pitfalls
Common Job's tears, also known as Job's tears or by its Latin name Coix lacryma-jobi, has become one of the popular superfood trends in recent years. Although it is still less known in the Czech Republic than quinoa or chia seeds, its popularity among health enthusiasts is growing. This fruit, originating from Southeast Asia, attracts not only with its mildly nutty taste but also with its reportedly beneficial health effects. However, as with anything, there are two sides to every coin, and Job's tears is no exception. Is it really as safe as people say? Are there any adverse effects of Job's tears that one should be aware of?
Job's tears have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It is considered a food that helps remove excess moisture from the body, strengthens the spleen and stomach, and overall harmonizes the body. It contains proteins, fiber, B vitamins, magnesium, calcium, and antioxidants that help protect cells from free radicals. These properties make it recommended for detoxifying the body, digestive issues, as well as skin problems or swelling.
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In modern nutrition, Job's tears are valued primarily for their nutritional value and low glycemic index. They can be an excellent alternative to rice, couscous, or buckwheat and are suitable for both sweet and savory dishes. In many Asian cuisines, they are commonly prepared in the form of porridge, salads, or even desserts. Their wide range of uses is one reason they are finding a place on European plates.
However, despite being referred to as a "miracle grain," some potential negative effects associated with their consumption cannot be overlooked. Even natural foods can have their risks, especially if consumed in large quantities or under unsuitable health conditions.
When Can Job's Tears Be Problematic?
One of the first warnings one encounters when researching Job's tears is their potential impact on pregnancy. Some sources suggest that Job's tears can stimulate uterine contractions, theoretically increasing the risk of miscarriage or premature birth. Although scientific evidence is not conclusive, traditional Chinese medicine advises pregnant women to avoid consuming Job's tears, especially in the first trimester. Caution is also recommended during breastfeeding, as there is insufficient data on the effects of Job's tears on infants.
People with low blood pressure should also exercise caution. Some studies suggest that Job's tears may have a hypotensive effect – that is, they may lower blood pressure. For someone with high blood pressure, this may be desirable, but for those with naturally low blood pressure, it may cause unpleasant symptoms such as dizziness or fatigue.
The effect of Job's tears on blood sugar levels is also interesting. Due to their low glycemic index, they are suitable for diabetics, but when combined with some diabetes medications, they could lead to hypoglycemia – that is, too low blood sugar levels. For this reason, it is advisable to consult with a doctor before regularly consuming them, especially if one is taking antidiabetic medications.
Then there's the issue of allergies and individual intolerance. Although Job's tears are not a common allergen, they may cause reactions in sensitive individuals, such as digestive discomfort, skin rash, or respiratory issues. Especially when consuming them for the first time, it is recommended to start with a small amount and monitor the body's response.
What Does Practice Say?
Most people who include Job's tears in their diet do not experience any complications. However, as some experiences from online discussions and professional literature show, exceptions do occur.
An example from practice? Mrs. Jana from Znojmo, a long-time advocate of healthy eating, decided to replace common side dishes with Job's tears. After several weeks of regular consumption (about 4–5 times a week), she began experiencing digestive issues – bloating, cramps, and occasional abdominal pain. After visiting a doctor and ruling out other causes, it turned out that her digestion simply couldn't handle large amounts of this fiber-rich food. After reducing the frequency of consumption to 1–2 times a week, her issues subsided.
This highlights an important principle: even the healthiest food can be problematic if consumed in excessive amounts or if it doesn't suit a particular organism. People with sensitive digestion should be cautious and listen to their body's signals.
How to Safely Incorporate Job's Tears into Your Diet?
The foundation of successfully incorporating a new food into your diet is moderation and observing your body's reactions. For beginners, it's enough to include it once or twice a week in small amounts – for example, as a side dish or part of a salad. If no unpleasant symptoms occur, the frequency can be gradually increased.
When purchasing, it's important to pay attention to quality – ideally choosing organic products without added preservatives or pesticides. Before cooking, it's advisable to rinse Job's tears thoroughly and ideally soak them – similar to lentils or legumes. This improves their digestibility.
For people with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, or those taking medications, it is always better to consult a doctor or nutritionist to see if incorporating Job's tears is appropriate. It might seem like unnecessary caution, but with less known foods, it's better to be one step ahead rather than surprised by unpleasant consequences.
Fashion Trend or Return to Naturalness?
What is now labeled as a superfood has been a regular part of the diet in other cultures for thousands of years. Job's tears fall into this category. Their popularity is partly a result of the modern trend of seeking "miraculous" foods, but they also offer a return to a natural and balanced diet, based on simple ingredients and traditional methods.
However, it is important not to forget that no single food ensures health on its own. It's always a combination of lifestyle, diet, exercise, and mental well-being. Job's tears can be a great addition, but not a miraculous cure.
As the well-known nutrition expert Michael Pollan says: "Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants." In this spirit, Job's tears can be a great enhancement to the daily diet – if consumed with caution and respect for one's body.
