How many apricot kernels should i take

The kernels contain protein, fiber, and a high percentage of oil, which people can extract from the kernel. People use oil pressed from the sweet kernel can be used for cooking in the same way as they might use sweet almond oil.

Processed foods, such as amaretto biscuits, almond finger biscuits, and apricot jams, contain apricot kernels. Some people who live in the North-West Himalayas think wild apricots and their kernels have both nutritional and medicinal uses.

Possible uses include biodiesel production, skin, and hair-care products. Oil and kernels from the bitter variety of apricot kernel are often ingredients in cosmetics, such as body oil, face cream, lip balm, and essential oil. In India, people use apricot kernel oil is used to make massage oil, because they believe it relieves aches and pains. One study reports that, depending on the type of apricot, the kernels are composed of :.

Around 5 percent of the kernel is fiber. Apricot kernel oil is high in essential fatty acids. These are necessary for human health, but the human body cannot produce them, so people must take them in through diet. There are two main types of essential fatty acids: linoleic acid omega-6 and alpha-linolenic acid omega Linolenic acid plays a vital role in brain function and healthy growth and development.

Fatty acids also stimulate skin and hair growth, regulate metabolism, maintain bone health, and support the reproductive system. Many people think that fatty acids have antioxidant properties. In a rodent study published in , rats with liver fibrosis received a dose of 1.

Researchers found there was an improvement in symptoms. They suggested this may be due to antioxidant activity, as the kernels contain oleic acid and other polyphenols.

Apricot kernels do not contain a significant amount of vitamins and minerals, but the oil is rich in vitamin E. According to the National Institutes of Health, vitamin E has antioxidant properties. Apricot kernels may have some health benefits, and some people have suggested that they may help fight cancer. Scientists have proposed that a compound called amygdalin, present in apricot kernels, may be a way to eradicate tumors and prevent cancer by stopping cells from reproducing.

A laboratory study published in suggested that amygdalin might inhibit genes that lead to cell proliferation. It is also present in the seeds of other fruit, including apples, cherries, plums, and peaches. Clover, sorghum, and lima beans also contain amygdalin. Amygdalin is a cyanogenic glycoside. When someone eats amygdalin, it converts to cyanide in their body. Cyanide is a fast-acting, potentially deadly chemical. Depending on the dose, consuming cyanide can lead to :.

Cyanide kills cells in the human body by preventing them from using oxygen. Cyanide is particularly harmful to the heart and the brain because they use a lot of oxygen. Exposure can lead to long-term effects on the heart, brain, and nervous system. Research suggests that 0.

Estimates state that eating 50 to 60 apricot kernels could deliver a lethal dose of cyanide. Cyanide poisoning can occur at much lower levels, however. Commercial sources that promote the consumption of raw apricot kernels recommend between 6 and 10 kernels per day.

Some recommend more for people with cancer, but this can be dangerous. People who follow these dose recommendations are likely to be exposed to cyanide levels that cause cyanide poisoning. For more information, see the EFSA press release. Q What is the concern? Apricot kernels contain the plant toxin amygdalin, which converts to cyanide after eating.

Cyanide poisoning can cause nausea, fever, headaches, insomnia, thirst, lethargy, nervousness, joint and muscle aches and pains, and falling blood pressure. In extreme cases, it is fatal. What are apricot kernels? The apricot kernel is the seed from inside the apricot stone. It is obtained by cracking open and removing the hard stone shell. These kernels can be bitter or sweet and are known to contain varying amounts of amygdalin. As there is no clear distinction between the amygdalin content of bitter and sweet varieties, this consumption advice relates to both bitter and sweet apricot kernels.

Is it safe to eat apricot fruit? Yes, eating apricot fruit does not pose a health risk to consumers as the kernel, which is inside the apricot stone, has no contact with the apricot fruit. Are there restrictions on the sale of apricot kernels? In addition, as a general rule, food business operators must not place unsafe food on the market and must provide the consumer with appropriate instructions for use on the food label. What about labelling? The FSAI advises that apricot kernels should be labelled to inform consumers that adults should eat no more than small kernels per day due to the risk of cyanide poisoning.

Q: How many apricot seeds should I take each day? A: You will need to determine the best amount for yourself. Start with one apricot seed an hour and see how you do. If you notice any unwanted side effects like dizziness, headache or upset stomach, then you are consuming too many seeds too fast. But remember to never over consume apricot seeds, always start with a small amount and slowly increase that amount if you feel you want to. Q: Can I take apricot seeds and B17 together?

A: Yes, however they should be spread out at least one hour apart from each other. If you notice any unwanted side effects like dizziness, head ache or upset stomach then you're consuming too much too fast.

Q: How much B17 should I take daily? A: Quantities vary from person to person depending on their needs. Research all products before consumption.

Consult your naturopath, homeopathic physician, kinesiologist or physician of choice.