Gastrointestinal Issues: Bitter Sweet Potato and Its Effects

Gastrointestinal issues

Hello, doctor.
Last night, I ate a small piece of bitter sweet potato, and afterwards, I felt something was off.
When I peeled it open, I found black spots.
About 10 to 30 minutes later, I started feeling uncomfortable, and after one or two hours, I felt bloated in the area above my belly button.
I began to feel warm all over and experienced general weakness, which kept me awake all night.
However, I did not have diarrhea during this time.
Later, I went to a clinic where the doctor prescribed medication to relieve my symptoms (for stomach pain and nausea), but I did not notice any improvement.
I later learned that if sweet potatoes taste bitter, it may be due to the presence of solanine and other toxic compounds.
I'm unsure if there are specific medications to counteract these toxins, and I wonder if I need to seek medical attention again and ask for a prescription.

Erin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/30

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

There is likely no antidote; we will just need to observe for now.

Reply Date: 2019/10/30

More Info

It sounds like you've had a challenging experience after consuming a bitter sweet potato, which can indeed lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. The symptoms you described, including abdominal bloating, a feeling of heat in your body, and overall weakness, are concerning and warrant further investigation.

Bitter sweet potatoes can contain compounds such as "cucurbitacins," which are known to be toxic and can cause gastrointestinal distress. These compounds are not typically present in sweet potatoes, but certain environmental factors or improper storage can lead to their development. The presence of black spots on the sweet potato may indicate spoilage or the presence of these harmful compounds. Consuming spoiled or contaminated food can lead to food poisoning, which often manifests as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

Given that you experienced symptoms shortly after eating the sweet potato, it is possible that your body was reacting to the toxins or spoilage. The fact that you did not experience diarrhea is somewhat unusual, as many foodborne illnesses typically involve gastrointestinal upset that includes diarrhea. However, the absence of diarrhea does not rule out the possibility of food poisoning or a reaction to the bitter sweet potato.

The medication prescribed by your doctor to alleviate symptoms such as stomach pain and nausea is a common approach to managing gastrointestinal discomfort. However, if you did not experience any relief from these medications, it may be an indication that the underlying issue has not been addressed. It is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If they persist or worsen, or if you develop additional symptoms such as vomiting, fever, or severe abdominal pain, it would be prudent to seek medical attention again.

In terms of whether there are specific antidotes for the toxins found in bitter sweet potatoes, there are no known specific antidotes for cucurbitacins. The treatment typically focuses on symptomatic relief, which may include medications to control nausea and pain, as well as supportive care such as hydration. If you suspect that you have consumed a toxic substance, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for guidance.

In conclusion, while your initial visit to the doctor was a good step, given the persistence of your symptoms and the potential for serious reactions to contaminated food, I would recommend returning to your healthcare provider. Be sure to inform them of all your symptoms, the specific food you consumed, and the lack of improvement with the initial treatment. They may consider further diagnostic tests or a different treatment approach to ensure your health and well-being. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to food-related illnesses.

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