Chayote and Its Health Risks: Who Should Avoid It?

Chayote squash offers several health benefits. However, certain groups of people face a higher risk of allergic reactions. Those who need to limit fiber due to specific health conditions should not consume it frequently or in excessive amounts.

Chayote also has the potential to raise blood sugar levels. Therefore, individuals with diabetes or those at high risk of developing it should limit their intake.

Groups of People Who Should Avoid Eating Chayote

People with Diabetes

Chayote can increase blood sugar levels. For this reason, individuals with diabetes or those at high risk should limit their consumption. While chayote is rich in nutrients, eating too much may lead to hyperglycemia and negatively impact overall health.

Instead of eating chayote frequently, diabetics should consider vegetables that are lower in carbohydrates and easier to digest. This can help them maintain stable blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications.

People with Digestive Disorders

An average chayote weighs about 200g and contains around 4g of fiber. Fiber is well-known for supporting healthy digestion, regulating bowel movements, and preventing constipation.

However, consuming too much fiber (on average, an adult needs about 25g per day, though requirements vary) may cause the opposite effect, including indigestion, bloating, or discomfort.

For those with a history of digestive disorders, eating chayote can cause gas, indigestion, or even diarrhea due to its gas-producing effect in the stomach. People with sensitive digestive systems should be cautious when adding chayote to their diet.

Pregnant Women

During pregnancy, nutrition requires special attention. While chayote provides many vitamins and minerals, some studies suggest that consuming it may trigger uterine contractions. This could increase the risk of premature labor or negatively affect both the mother and the baby. Pregnant women, especially in the early stages of pregnancy, should be cautious with chayote.

People with Kidney Disease

Chayote contains a significant amount of potassium, which can be problematic for those with kidney conditions. Such individuals need to closely monitor their potassium intake, as excess potassium may accumulate in the body and increase the risk of cardiovascular issues.

Excessive consumption of chayote over time may also reduce the absorption of other nutrients due to its oxalic acid content. Oxalic acid can bind with calcium-rich foods to form calcium oxalate, which may crystallize and contribute to the formation of kidney stones, gallstones, or pancreatic stones—thus affecting nutrient absorption and overall health.

Other foods high in oxalic acid that also require caution include bitter melon, water spinach, beetroot, and spinach. Fortunately, oxalic acid dissolves easily in water. By blanching vegetables and discarding the boiling water, you can remove 40–70% of oxalic acid. Additionally, drinking plenty of water while eating oxalate-rich foods helps the body flush out excess oxalate.

If you have a history of kidney disease, consult your doctor to determine whether chayote is appropriate for your diet. Always ensure that your food choices are safe for your health.

Is Chayote Sap Toxic?

Chayote sap is not toxic, but it may cause itching or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Therefore, when handling raw chayote, it is recommended to wear gloves to reduce contact with the sap, and wash thoroughly after peeling.

Foods That Should Not Be Combined with Chayote

Chayote may negatively interact with certain foods, leading to unwanted health effects. Some combinations to avoid include:

Beef
Beef is nutrient-dense and protein-rich. However, when combined with chayote in one meal, it may cause bloating, indigestion, or gas. This is because chayote has a “cool” nature, while beef is “warm.” The contrast may disrupt digestion and cause discomfort. To avoid this, consume them at separate meals several hours apart.

Seafood

Seafood should also be avoided when eating chayote. Consuming them together may cause allergic reactions or other adverse effects, such as itching, rashes, or nausea. Both seafood and chayote are considered “cool” in nature, and combining them may impair digestion and nutrient absorption. For best results, avoid eating chayote immediately after consuming seafood.

Soybeans

Soybeans are a popular plant-based protein source, but when eaten with chayote, they may irritate the stomach and cause nausea. This results from the interaction between carbohydrates in chayote and proteins in soy, which can complicate digestion. To minimize risks, eat them separately with a 2–3 hour gap.

Spicy Foods

Chayote has a cooling nature, whereas spicy foods are hot. Eating them together may disrupt the body’s internal balance, leading to issues like acne, indigestion, or overheating. For those who enjoy spicy foods, it is best to avoid pairing them with chayote. Instead, consume chayote in light, refreshing dishes to support balance and overall health.