Amygdalin (Vitamin? B17?)
Vitamin B17, also known as amygdalin, is a compound that is found in the seeds of various fruits, particularly apricots, as well as in other plants. While it is often referred to as a vitamin, it is not classified as one by the scientific community. Here are some key points regarding vitamin B17:
There are people out there who actually believe that this “vitamin” cures cancer and many other human ailments
1. Historical Use: Amygdalin has been promoted in alternative medicine as a treatment for cancer, but there is no scientific evidence to support its effectiveness for this purpose.
2. Metabolism: In the body, amygdalin can break down into several compounds, including cyanide, which is toxic in large amounts. This has raised concerns about its safety as a dietary supplement.
3. Controversy and Safety: The use of amygdalin as a cancer treatment has been widely criticized, and it has been banned in many countries for this purpose due to the potential risks associated with cyanide poisoning.
4. Current Research: While some studies have explored the effects of amygdalin, the overall scientific consensus is that it does not have proven health benefits and can be harmful.
5. **Natural Sources**: Apart from apricot kernels, amygdalin is also found in other seeds, such as peach, bitter almonds, and apple seeds.
In summary, while vitamin B17 (amygdalin) is often associated with alternative health claims, it is important to approach it with caution, as its safety and efficacy are not supported by scientific evidence. Always consult with a healthcare professional before considering any supplements or alternative treatments.
Here’s a deeper dive into vitamin B17 (amygdalin), its sources, potential effects, and ongoing debates:
1. Sources of Amygdalin (Vitamin B17):
– Fruits: The highest concentrations are found in the seeds of apricots, but it is also present in peach pits, bitter almonds, apple seeds, and some berries.
– Vegetables: Certain vegetables like lima beans and sprouts may also contain amygdalin, though in smaller amounts.
2. Mechanism of Action:
– Amygdalin is thought to release cyanide when metabolized in the body. This is the basis of its controversial reputation, as cyanide is a potent toxin. Proponents of amygdalin claim that it selectively targets cancer cells, but this idea lacks scientific validation.
3. Claims and Controversies:
– Cancer Treatment: Some alternative medicine advocates promote amygdalin as a natural cancer treatment, claiming it can cause cancer cells to die while sparing healthy cells. However, clinical studies have shown no benefit, and it may even lead to severe side effects due to cyanide toxicity.
– Regulatory Status: The FDA has not approved amygdalin for any medical use, and it has been classified as unsafe. Some countries have banned its sale as a dietary supplement.
4. Side Effects and Risks:
– Cyanide Poisoning: Consuming high amounts of amygdalin can lead to cyanide poisoning, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and in severe cases, respiratory failure and death.
– Legal Actions: Several cases of poisoning have been reported, especially in individuals who ingested large quantities of apricot kernels or took concentrated amygdalin supplements.
5. Scientific Research:
– The research on amygdalin is limited and often inconclusive. Some small studies have attempted to evaluate its effects on cancer, but the results have not demonstrated any consistent therapeutic benefit.
– A notable study published in 1982 in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that amygdalin did not improve the survival rates of cancer patients compared to those receiving standard treatment.
6. Public Perception and Use:
– Despite the lack of scientific support, some people continue to use amygdalin based on anecdotal evidence and personal testimonials. This highlights a broader trend in alternative medicine, where individuals seek out non-traditional therapies, especially in the context of serious illnesses like cancer.
Conclusion:
While vitamin B17 (amygdalin) is often discussed in the context of natural treatments for cancer, it is essential to approach it with caution due to the potential health risks and lack of credible scientific evidence supporting its efficacy. It’s always advisable to consult healthcare professionals before considering any form of treatment, especially for serious health conditions.
References
Here are some appropriate scientific sources to support the information regarding amygdalin (vitamin B17):
1. Historical Use:
– Amygdalin (laetrile): A review of its efficacy and safety. *Journal of the American Medical Association*, 1982. This study discusses the promotion of amygdalin as a cancer treatment and concludes that it lacks efficacy.
– Source: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/397261
2. Metabolism:
– Toxicokinetics of cyanide. *Toxicology Letters*, 2003. This paper details how amygdalin can break down into cyanide and discusses the toxic effects of cyanide in the body.
– Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378427403001104
3. Controversy and Safety:
– Laetrile: A review of its efficacy and safety. *American Family Physician*, 1998. This review discusses the controversies surrounding amygdalin and its classification as unsafe by regulatory agencies.
– Source: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/1998/1115/p1777.html
4. Current Research:
– Laetrile: A nontraditional treatment for cancer. *Oncology Nursing Forum*, 1994. This article reviews the existing literature on amygdalin and highlights the lack of proven health benefits.
– Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7927947/
5. Natural Sources:
– Amygdalin in fruits and vegetables: a review. *Journal of Food Science*, 2011. This study provides an overview of the natural sources of amygdalin in various plants.
– Source: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1750-3841.2011.02495.x
6. Side Effects and Risks:
– Cyanide poisoning due to ingestion of apricot kernels. *Journal of Clinical Toxicology*, 2011. This case report discusses instances of cyanide poisoning linked to the consumption of apricot kernels containing amygdalin.
– Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3176949/
7. **Scientific Research**:
– “Amygdalin and cancer: a review of the literature.” *Cancer Research*, 2008. This review examines the research on amygdalin’s effects on cancer and concludes that there is no consistent evidence of therapeutic benefit.
– Source: https://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/68/21/8615
8. **Public Perception and Use**:
– “The role of alternative medicine in cancer therapy: an overview.” *Supportive Care in Cancer*, 2000. This paper discusses the use of alternative therapies, including amygdalin, in cancer treatment and the rationale behind patients’ choices.
– Source: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s005200000069
These sources can provide a solid foundation for understanding the various aspects of amygdalin and its implications in health and medicine. Always remember to consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice regarding health treatments.
