Apricot Nuts - Useful And Dangerous

Author: Ivan Red Jr. Time for reading: ~1 minutes Last Updated: August 08, 2022

What are the benefits of apricot kernels and what is the recommended amount for adults and children to consume?

Apricot nuts are linked to the new superfood, with researchers highlighting their anti-cancer properties. However, they warn that a compound in the apricot kernel turns into cyanide as soon as it enters the body, to levels that can harm us.

These nuts contain fiber , protein and high amounts of useful fats. In percentage terms, fat accounts for 50%, protein for 25% and carbohydrate for about 8%.

Apricot kernel is high in essential fatty acids , which are essential for health. The body cannot produce them, so they should be obtained from the diet.

There are two main types of essential fatty acids - omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids . They play a key role in brain function, normal growth and tissue development. Fatty acids also stimulate skin and hair growth, regulate metabolism , maintain bone health and support the reproductive system .

In apricot kernels do not contain significant amounts of vitamins and minerals, although these oil is rich in vitamin E .

According to some researchers, the compound amygdalin , which is found in apricot kernels, can help fight cancer.

When consumed, amygdalin is converted to cyanide , a potentially life-threatening chemical.

Cyanide prevents cells in the body from using the oxygen they need, which destroys them. Because the brain and heart use large amounts of oxygen, cyanide harms them more than other organs.

According to research, the amount of 0.5 - 3.5 mg of cyanide per kilogram of body weight can be potentially life-threatening. It has been estimated that consuming 50-60 apricot kernels can deliver a lethal dose of cyanide , but poisoning with this substance is likely to occur at much lower levels.

The European Food Safety Authority warns that a serving of 3 small apricots or one large one can expose adults to dangerous levels of cyanide exposure . For children, a small nut can be toxic.

Experts from the European Food Safety Authority advise not to consume more than 20 mcg of cyanide per kilogram of body weight at a time. This limits the consumption of one apricot kernel for adults, and for children even half may exceed the recommended dose.

Apricot Nuts - Useful And Dangerous

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