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. The European Food Safety Authority EFSA have warned that a single serving of three small apricot kernels or one large apricot kernel could put adults over the suggested safe levels of cyanide exposure, while one small kernel could be toxic to an infant.
The EFSA advise that no one should consume more than 20 micrograms mcg of cyanide per kilogram of body weight at one time. This limits consumption to one kernel for adults. Even half a kernel would be over the limit for children.
Researchers note that the seeds of bitter apricots have a particularly high level of amygdalin at 5. Laetrile, also called B, is a partly synthetic form of amygdalin. It has been proposed as an alternative treatment for cancer. 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. Information that apricot kernels are not suitable for children should also be provided on the label. Medicinal claims must not be made about any food. Apricot kernels have been wrongly promoted as having anti-cancer effects. This has led to some people suffering cyanide poisoning after having consumed more than two kernels per day.
What about bitter almonds? While the EFSA study did not specifically address bitter almonds, studies have shown that the amygdalin level in raw bitter almonds is similar to that of apricot kernels. Therefore, FSAI advises against eating bitter almonds due to the risk of cyanide poisoning.
I ate apricot kernels or bitter almonds and I am not feeling well. What should I do? If you ate apricot kernels or bitter almonds and are feeling unwell, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible. Online Information Centre. Is this page useful? Consult your naturopath, homeopathic physician, kinesiologist or physician of choice. As with apricot seeds, always start with a small amount and slow move to a higher amount if desired.
A: We recommend you do not freeze apricot seeds. They are better kept in a cool dry place like the refrigerator or pantry. Q: How long can I store the apricot seeds? A: Up to two years in the refrigerator. Q: Are your apricot seeds raw? A: Yes, our apricot seeds are air dried in the pits at low heats and then shelled and packaged. No other processing has been done. Q: Isn't B17 illegal in the United States? A: No, however, making claims of any health benefit has been prohibited by the FDA.
Q: Can I give these products to my pets?
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