People who should not have amla (gooseberry)

There are several reasons you should include amla or gooseberry in your diet this season. The winter superfood is rich in vitamin C, often purported to have potential antioxidant benefits. The green fruit cultivated in this season contains 20 times more vitamin C than an orange, making it a healthy and nutritious fruit to add to the diet in cold weather to boost immunity. It is used widely in India in different forms for cooking purposes and medicinal usage. Even though eating Indian gooseberry is highly beneficial for health, it might not be safe for consumption for all. When suffering from some particular condition, it is best to avoid this tangy fruit to keep your symptoms in control. Here are some people who should not have gooseberries or amla.

Amla is rich in vitamin C, a nutrient that contributes to the acidic nature of the fruit. Studies suggest that eating this fruit can be good for reduction in the frequency and severity of heartburn, but for those dealing with hyperacidity it may worsen the symptoms. Eating amla on an empty stomach with a history of hyperacidity can irritate the lining of the stomach and can trigger acidity.

Indian gooseberry has antiplatelet properties. That means it can prevent the formation of blood clots. For normal people, it can be good to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, but for those already suffering from blood-related disorders eating amla might not be a good option. Due to its antiplatelet properties, it can thin your blood and prevent normal blood clotting. Even for those suffering from a bleeding disorder, it is best to consult a doctor before including amla in the diet.

Those who have to undergo surgery in the near future should avoid amla for the time being. Eating an excess amount of this winter fruit involves the risk of bleeding. If bleeding is persistent and prolonged, it may lead to tissue hypoxemia, severe acidosis or multiorgan dysfunction. It is advised to stop eating amla at least 2 weeks before the scheduled surgery.

Some studies also suggest that amla may help to lower the blood sugar level. Although amla is beneficial for people suffering from Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, it is not good for those who often have a low blood sugar level or are on anti-diabetic medications. So, it is generally advised that diabetic patients monitor their blood sugar level when having amla with anti-diabetic drugs.

Amla is rich in several nutritious compounds, which has potential health benefits. Another fact is that its excess intake may lead to problems like upset stomach, diarrhoea and dehydration. It is believed that these symptoms may make the situation difficult for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Though there are not many studies on how eating may be harmful during breastfeeding and pregnancy, it is advised to avoid it or talk to your healthcare provider before taking it.

If you have a dry scalp or dry skin, eating too much amla can aggravate the problem. It can lead to problems of hair fall, itchiness, dandruff and other hair-related problems. Some compounds in the fruit may also lead to dehydration. So, it is recommended to drink lots of water after consuming amla.

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for physician's advice. Please consult your treating physician for more details.