Do jujubes have any side effects?

December 1, 2025 •

3 min read

Jujube fruit is rich in fiber, with approximately 50% of its carbohydrates coming from this nutrient. But while it offers many benefits, it's natural to question, do jujubes have any side effects? While generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience adverse reactions, particularly when consuming large quantities or when combined with certain medications.

Quick Summary

Jujube fruits are mostly safe in moderation, but overconsumption can lead to digestive discomfort like bloating or diarrhea due to high fiber. It is known to interact with certain medications, including specific antidepressants and anti-seizure drugs, and may also trigger allergic reactions in sensitive people.

Key Points

Drug Interactions: Jujubes can interact with certain antidepressants (like venlafaxine) and anti-seizure medications, potentially causing severe reactions.
Digestive Distress: Eating too many jujubes can lead to bloating, gas, and diarrhea, primarily due to their high fiber content.
Allergy Risk: Some individuals may have allergic reactions to jujubes, with symptoms ranging from skin rashes to breathing difficulties.
Blood Sugar and Pressure: Jujubes may affect blood sugar levels and can lower blood pressure, requiring caution for those with diabetes or hypotension.
Pre-Surgery Caution: Due to potential effects on blood sugar and sedation, it's advised to avoid jujubes for at least two weeks before any surgical procedure.
Moderation is Recommended: The risk of side effects is primarily associated with excessive consumption, so enjoying them in moderation is key.

Common Digestive Issues

For most people, consuming a moderate amount of jujubes is perfectly safe. However, excessive intake, especially of the dried variety which has a higher concentration of fiber and sugar, can lead to gastrointestinal problems.

Bloating and gas: The high fiber content can be difficult for some digestive systems to process, leading to uncomfortable bloating and gas.
Diarrhea: Jujubes have traditionally been used as a mild laxative, and overconsumption can exacerbate this effect, causing diarrhea.

Potential Drug Interactions

One of the most important considerations regarding jujube side effects is its potential to interact with certain medications. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider if you are taking any of the following drugs:

Antidepressants (SSRIs/SNRIs): Jujube, particularly wild jujube varieties, may interact with antidepressants like venlafaxine. In rare cases, this combination can lead to a severe and life-threatening condition known as serotonin syndrome.
Anti-seizure medications: Animal studies have indicated that jujube extract may enhance the effects of certain seizure medications, such as phenytoin, phenobarbitone, and carbamazepine.
Diabetes medication: Jujubes may affect blood sugar levels, so individuals with diabetes who are taking medication to control their blood sugar should monitor their levels carefully.
Sedatives and blood thinners: Jujubes may have a mild sedative effect, and consuming them with other sedatives could lead to excessive drowsiness. Additionally, some reports suggest potential interaction with blood thinners.

Allergic Reactions

While uncommon, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to jujube fruit. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:

Itching or tingling in the mouth
Hives and skin rashes
Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
Shortness of breath or wheezing
Abdominal pain or diarrhea

Cross-reactivity with other allergens, such as latex, has also been reported in cases of jujube allergy, a phenomenon known as 'latex-fruit syndrome'.

Cautions for Specific Conditions

Certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid consuming jujube fruit altogether:

Diabetics: Due to their potential to lower blood sugar, diabetics should consult their doctor before adding jujubes to their diet, especially in significant amounts.
Those with low blood pressure: The mild sedative properties could cause a further drop in blood pressure, potentially leading to dizziness or fainting.
Kidney stone history: Jujubes contain oxalates, and those with a history of kidney stones should be cautious, as high intake could contribute to stone formation.
Before surgery: Because jujubes can affect blood sugar levels and have a sedative effect, it is recommended to stop consuming them at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery.

Comparison of Fresh vs. Dried Jujubes


Feature	Fresh Jujube	Dried Jujube
Sugar Concentration	Lower	Higher (sugar is more concentrated)
Fiber Content	Lower	Higher (concentrated during drying)
Potential for Bloating	Lower risk	Higher risk, especially with overconsumption
Sugar Impact	Milder effect on blood sugar	More significant effect on blood sugar
Skin Dryness	Not associated	Excessive consumption may lead to skin dryness due to astringent properties

Other Considerations

Beyond the potential side effects already discussed, there are other important factors to keep in mind when consuming jujubes:

Pit Safety: The pit of the jujube fruit is pointed and hard. There have been documented cases where swallowing the pit has caused physical injury, such as a perforated bowel. It is always best to remove the pit before consuming, especially when serving to children.
Moderation is Key: As with any food, moderation is essential. Enjoying jujubes as part of a balanced diet minimizes the risk of experiencing adverse effects.

Conclusion

While jujubes are a nutritious fruit packed with fiber and antioxidants, they are not without potential side effects. Excessive consumption can lead to digestive discomfort, and individuals on certain medications for depression, seizures, or diabetes should be particularly cautious due to documented drug interactions. Furthermore, rare allergic reactions can occur, and those with specific health conditions like low blood pressure or a history of kidney stones need to be mindful of their intake. As always, consulting a healthcare professional is the safest course of action, especially if you have pre-existing health concerns or are taking medication, to ensure that jujubes remain a safe and healthy addition to your diet. For more information on general fruit benefits and risks, see this guide: What to Know About Eating Jujube Fruit (Chinese Dates).

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, overconsuming jujubes can cause side effects, most commonly digestive issues like bloating and diarrhea due to the high fiber content. Moderation is recommended to avoid these problems.

Individuals on specific antidepressants (like venlafaxine) or anti-seizure medications (like phenytoin) should avoid jujubes due to potential drug interactions. People with diabetes, low blood pressure, or a history of kidney stones should also be cautious or consult a doctor.

Although rare, some people may be allergic to jujube fruit. Symptoms can include itching, swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing. Cross-reactivity with latex is also a possibility.

Jujubes have been shown to lower blood sugar levels. Individuals with diabetes, especially those taking medication, should monitor their blood sugar closely and consult a healthcare professional before adding them to their diet.

The pit of the jujube fruit is hard and pointed. Swallowing it accidentally could cause physical injury, and there are documented cases of bowel perforation. It is advisable to always remove the pit before eating.

Dried jujubes have a higher concentration of sugar and fiber than fresh ones. This means they are more likely to cause digestive issues like bloating and can have a more significant impact on blood sugar if consumed in large quantities.

Yes, jujubes have mild sedative properties. Consuming them, particularly in medicinal amounts, may cause drowsiness.