If you will be dipping into the Halloween candy this year, you might want to skip the black licorice. The FDA has issued a new warning that says that black licorice can harm your heart. In fact, several other studies conclude that it can harm even more than that.
First, let us note that the warning concerns adults (although, I imagine parents will want to take heed as well) who consume at least two ounces of black licorice a day for at least two weeks. While most of us want a little variety in our candy, there are no doubt licorice lovers who should be aware of the health risks. In addition, two ounces of candy isn’t much. Consuming more in one sitting can be easily done.
So what are the health risks of consuming black licorice? The experts say that it can set the heart stuttering, leading to heart arrhythmias. This is because of a complex called glycyrrhizin that gives black licorice its distinctive sweetness. The glycyrrhizin causes your kidneys to secrete potassium. When your potassium levels are lowered, it can make your heart beat too fast or out of sync.
Another problem with the black licorice, is that it can also cause salt and water retention, which can lead to trouble for those who already have high blood pressure or heart problems.
Finally, black licorice can interact with and change the absorption or effectiveness of many medications, especially diuretics, digoxin and laxatives. It can make certain medications more dangerous, such as birth control pills, and it can also interfere with cortisol and normal metabolism.
Not everyone will be affected by black licorice and wind up with health concerns, but if you have been eating a lot of licorice lately and have also been experiencing some of the negative symptoms, such as an irregular heartbeat and muscle weakness, you should stop eating black licorice and contact your doctor.
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