July 30, 2018
Apricot kernels are said to have healing properties. However, it is not recommended to consume large amounts in a single dose because they contain cyanide. Harmless consumed in small quantities, they can therefore become harmful if abused.
You should not eat more than three apricot kernels per day
Between 2012 and 2017, i.e. only 5 years, 154 poisonings due to cyanide contained in apricot kernels have been identified by the National Health Security Agency (Handles). Apricot kernels, which are found inside the core of the fruit, are known to have many virtues. In particular, they are attributed qualities that allow them to fight against cancer. For lovers of jams, this is often a well-known fact.
Result: it is now trend to consume apricot kernels considered a natural remedy. ANSES warns, however, about their composition: they contain cyanide. En consuming large amounts can therefore be dangerous for health, even though their ” alleged anti-cancer properties Have never been proven, underlines the institution. On the other hand, the woman in her fifties who was hospitalized in hypotension after consuming 50 apricot kernels in one day, she is very real.
Apricot kernels can cause respiratory discomfort
While ANSES does not recommend the consumption of apricot kernels as a ” food approval », She reminds consumers that it is important to consume wisely. In other words, it is essential not to eat more than three per day if you are an adult. In children it is not recommended to consume apricot kernels, and if necessary, they should be limited to half an apricot kernel per day.
In its press release recalling the dangers of consuming apricot kernels, ANSES reveals that this food ” arouses a craze that we can measure on the internet where sites encourage their consumption in large quantities, which can range from ten almonds per day for prevention to sixty almonds for people with cancer “. Consuming large amounts of apricot kernels may cause feelings of discomfort, digestive disturbances, dizziness, respiratory discomfort, palpitations or even headaches.
Flore Desbois
Read also our sheet: Apricot
