“Green” Foods Aren’t Harmless for Everyone: 5 Groups Who Should Be Careful

Many people eat lettuce the wrong way without realizing they belong to a group that should avoid it.
These individuals should limit or avoid lettuce to prevent potential negative effects on their health.

Lettuce has long been considered a familiar green vegetable, rich in vitamins and fiber, and commonly featured in healthy meals. While lettuce is beneficial, it is not suitable for everyone, especially when eaten in large amounts or on a regular basis. For certain groups, consuming too much lettuce or eating it improperly may harm health.

Five groups of people who should limit lettuce intake include:

1. People with weak digestion or who often experience abdominal coldness
Lettuce has a cooling nature and is usually eaten raw, making it heavy on the stomach for those with weak digestive systems. Eating too much can lead to digestive discomfort or abdominal pain. In the evening, raw lettuce may worsen stomach coldness, causing discomfort and poor sleep. Those who often experience stomach pain after eating raw foods should limit lettuce and prioritize cooked vegetables.

2. People with colitis or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Lettuce is high in fiber, which can be problematic for a damaged digestive system. Eating a lot of lettuce, especially raw, may cause abdominal cramps, frequent bowel movements, or prolonged discomfort. During flare-ups, it is better to choose easy-to-digest vegetables that are thoroughly cooked.

3. People with low blood pressure who often feel dizzy or fatigued
Lettuce contains a high water content and may help lower blood pressure. For those with a history of low blood pressure, eating too much can worsen fatigue, dizziness, or cause a sudden drop in blood pressure—particularly in the morning or during physical exertion. This group does not need to avoid lettuce completely but should consume it in moderation and pair it with protein- and energy-rich foods to maintain balance.

4. Pregnant women, especially in the first trimester
Raw lettuce may carry bacteria, parasites, or pesticide residues. Eating it raw can be risky, potentially causing abdominal pain, diarrhea, food poisoning, or parasitic infections. Pregnant women should generally avoid raw vegetables, including lettuce, and choose well-cooked options for safety.

5. People who are physically weakened or recovering from illness
Lettuce is not ideal for those who are weak or newly recovering from illness. When the body is still fragile and digestion and immunity have not fully recovered, raw vegetables can cause abdominal coldness and fatigue, slowing recovery. Warm, easy-to-digest, nutrient-dense foods are more suitable during this period than cooling vegetables like lettuce.