"Doctors Never Eat This": Foods Warned Against by Asan Medical Center Professor

"Do Not Eat Animal Organs or Freshwater Fish Raw"
"Risk of Paralysis, Blindness, Stroke, and Shock"

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Experts have issued warnings that eating certain foods raw—such as beef liver or omasum—can lead to parasitic infections and severe complications.

In a video posted on April 20 on the YouTube channel "JisikHansang," Professor Kwon Hyuksu from the Department of Allergy at Asan Medical Center in Seoul cautioned about the dangers of consuming raw foods like beef liver, omasum, tripe, raw freshwater fish, and other uncooked dishes.

"Never Eat Beef Liver or Omasum Raw"... Pathways for Parasitic Infection Present Serious Risks

Professor Kwon first stated, "Beef liver and omasum should never be eaten raw." He explained that although sanitary conditions have improved compared to the past, there remains a risk of infection when consuming beef liver or omasum raw. In particular, if parasites migrate to organs other than the intestines—such as the liver, lungs, brain, or eyes—they can trigger severe inflammatory responses.

During this process, not only can organ function deteriorate, but blood vessel damage may also cause blood clots to form, which in severe cases could lead to stroke. If parasites invade the eyes, it can result in vision loss or even blindness.

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Freshwater Sashimi Also Carries Cancer Risks

Freshwater sashimi was also identified as a food that requires caution. Fish such as carp or Chinese muddy loach can harbor liver flukes, which inhabit the bile ducts of the liver and cause chronic inflammation.

The problem is that initial symptoms are almost nonexistent, making it difficult to recognize an infection. If left untreated for a long period, it can lead to serious illnesses such as bile duct cancer, so caution is necessary.

Freshwater crabs and crayfish are no exception. Professor Kwon said, "These can carry lung flukes. These parasites can damage lung tissue and, in severe cases, cause hemoptysis, epilepsy, or cerebral hemorrhage."

Saltwater Sashimi Is Not Completely Safe Either

Even saltwater sashimi, which is generally considered safer, requires caution. A representative parasite is Anisakis (herring worm), which resides near the internal organs and can enter the human body during consumption.

If infected, it can cause acute abdominal pain or peritonitis, and in some cases, allergic reactions. In severe instances, it may progress to anaphylactic shock accompanied by breathing difficulties and low blood pressure.

Professor Kwon emphasized, "It is dangerous to think that parasitic infections can be prevented with medication," adding, "The most reliable way is to thoroughly cook your food before eating."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.