Many years ago I was told that stinky Durian and Beer in combination could kill you. Obviously I paid no attention drank beer and ate durian and did not die. I then forgot about the matter.
What got me thinking again though was after visiting a street food market in KL drinking some soda water and then waking up at night with quite literally the bloated stomach from hell. Was I about to die? And why did I not drink beer instead of soda if this was to be me last night in this world? Again tough I did not die, but got thinking about the rumor.
Said rumours persist across Southeast Asia that consuming durian and beer together can lead to fatal consequences, with stories of people dropping dead after indulging in the mix. But is this truth or just another Southeast Asian food myth? Let’s explore this deadly issue.
The Myth: Durian and Beer Can Kill You
If you’ve spent time in Thailand, Malaysia, or Indonesia, you’ve likely heard locals warn against mixing durian and beer. Some say the combination causes instant organ failure, while others claim it leads to stomach explosions (slightly more plausible)
Restaurants and street food vendors sometimes refuse to serve durian if you’re drinking alcohol, further fueling the myth. But what’s the science behind these claims AND is there actually any truth at all?
Why Do People Believe Durian and Beer is Dangerous?
There are a few reasons why this myth has stuck around:
- Personal Experiences: Many who eat durian and beer together report feeling bloated, dizzy, or nauseous.
- Traditional Beliefs: In Chinese medicine, durian is considered a “heaty” food, while beer is cooling. Mixing extreme energies in the body is believed to cause illness.
- Actual Deaths: There have been reports of people dying after consuming durian and beer, but correlation doesn’t equal causation. Other factors, like pre-existing health conditions, likely played a bigger role.
The Science Behind Durian and Beer
So, can durian and beer really kill you? The answer is that it almost certainly can’t, or is unlikely to. It could though not just technically happen, but has happened, with there being science behind this.
1. High Sugar and Fat Content
Durian is rich in sugar and fat, which slows digestion. When combined with alcohol, it can lead to bloating and discomfort as the body struggles to process both at once. This is well known to durian eaters and is something that I have certainly suffered with.
2. Sulfur Compounds in Durian
Durian contains sulfur compounds that can inhibit the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), which helps break down alcohol. This means alcohol stays in your system longer, potentially making you feel drunker and more nauseous than usual. Alas this has not happened to me.
3. Dehydration and Overheating
Durian is known for raising body temperature, and alcohol dehydrates you. This can cause dizziness and discomfort, especially in hot, humid climates. In extreme cases, dehydration and overheating could lead to serious health problems, particularly for those with heart conditions.
When Can Durian and Beer Be Dangerous?
While the combination itself won’t kill a healthy person, lets be honest we are not all healthy people! So, what are the contexts that might make durian and beer end you?
- If you have a weak liver or heart problems, the extra strain on your system could be dangerous (me).
- If you’re binge drinking, the inability to break down alcohol quickly could lead to severe intoxication (me).
- If you eat excessive amounts of durian, the high sugar and fat content could lead to digestive issues or discomfort (me).
Hmmm I think I went 3 for 3.
The Verdict: Can Durian and Beer Kill You?
No, durian and beer (probably) won’t kill you, but it can make you feel awful if consumed in excess. The key like most else is “everything in moderation – even moderation” – a mantra I very much live by.
So next time someone warns you about mixing durian and beer, you can confidently tell them it’s mostly a myth and then show them who is boss by taking this deadly challenge. Don’t blame me though if you ended bloated and with the shits at 3 am.