Amygdalin is a phytochemical found in many plant-based foods that has sparked both controversy and interest regarding its potential health effects. Also known as vitamin B17 or laetrile, amygdalin is composed of glucose, benzaldehyde, and cyanide. The theory is that when ingested, the cyanide is selectively released to target and destroy cancer cells. However, it's possible to ingest enough amygdalin to cause toxic cyanide poisoning as well. While human studies are still limited and conflicting, some show promising anticancer activity along with risks. This article will explore what foods contain amygdalin for those looking to incorporate appropriate vitamin B17 sources into their diet. We’ll also discuss the purported benefits and side effects of this nutrient so you can make informed decisions about your health.
What is amygdalin?
Amygdalin almonds, also known as vitamin B17, is a naturally occurring cyanogenic glycoside plant compound found in the seeds or kernels of many fruits and vegetables. The amygdalin molecule consists of a sugar group along with benzaldehyde and hydrocyanic acid. It is considered one of the nitrilosides, which are natural nitrile-containing plant compounds with potential medicinal properties.
In the human body, the enzyme beta-glucosidase helps break down amygdalin into glucose, benzaldehyde, and hydrocyanic acid (HCN). The hydrocyanic acid can release cyanide, which is believed to target and destroy cancer cells. However, excessive cyanide levels are also toxic. Therefore, amygdalin intake requires careful moderation and monitoring. When taken in appropriate amounts, amygdalin may offer anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting benefits.
While studies are still ongoing, amygdalin has shown promising anticancer potential in laboratory research and small human trials. However, there are risks like cyanide toxicity if misused. Always consult your doctor before taking amygdalin supplements, especially if you have cancer. Let’s explore which vitamin B17-rich foods naturally provide amygdalin.
Amygdalin B17 Benefits
Research indicates amygdalin may offer the following evidence-based health benefits:
●Kills cancer cells – Amygdalin releases cyanide that may target and destroy cancerous cells while leaving normal healthy cells intact. Studies show promising results against cancers like leukemia, prostate, cervical, liver, colon, and lung cancers.
●Relieves pain – The benzaldehyde in almond amygdalin is a natural analgesic that may help relieve pain in cancer patients. Its opioid receptor activity reduces pain perception.
●Boosts immunity – Amygdalin increases production of white blood cells, antibodies, and cytokines to stimulate immune function and combat disease.
●Fights inflammation – This phytochemical exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve swollen joints, pain, and gastrointestinal inflammation.
●Protects neurons – Amygdalin demonstrates neuroprotective effects that help prevent damage to brain and nerve cells by free radicals and toxins.
●Manages diabetes – Animal studies show amygdalin lowers blood sugar, increases insulin production, and improves diabetic kidney disease due to its antioxidant effects.
However, human studies are still limited and more research is needed to validate many of amygdalin’s proposed therapeutic mechanisms and uses. Always consult your doctor before using amygdalin therapeutically.
Amygdalin B17 Side Effects
While amygdalin shows promise, it does come with the following potential side effects and safety concerns:
●Cyanide poisoning – Excess amygdalin in almonds can release dangerous levels of cyanide leading to vomiting, diarrhea, headache, weakness, confusion, and even death. Strict dosage guidelines must be followed.
●Allergic reaction – Amygdalin can cause allergic reactions in those sensitive to peach, apricot, or almond seeds which also contain amygdalin. Discontinue use if any allergy symptoms develop.
●Hypoglycemia – By stimulating insulin release, amygdalin may lower blood sugar dangerously low in diabetics. Blood glucose levels should be monitored when taking amygdalin.
●Nerve damage – Peripheral neuropathy has been reported with excess amygdalin intake. Nerve damage can cause pain, numbness, and paralysis.
●Kidney dysfunction – High doses may cause kidney impairment by forming blood clots in the renal tubes. Kidney function should be checked if taking amygdalin long-term.
●Nausea and dizziness – Upset stomach, nausea, and dizziness are common side effects especially when treatment is first initiated as the body adjusts.
Always start with small doses of vitamin B17 under medical supervision to avoid toxicity. Never attempt to make amygdalin extracts at home due to the risk of cyanide poisoning. sidelines caution
What Food Has the Most Amygdalin?
Many seeds, beans, nuts, and fruits contain amygdalin, especially foods from the rose family (Rosaceae). While all edible parts of these foods contain some amygdalin, the seeds tend to be the most concentrated source. The foods highest in amygdalin include:
●Apricot kernels – Apricot seeds or kernels are one of the richest sources of amygdalin. Just 2 kernels provide around 1 mg of amygdalin. Eating too many could cause cyanide toxicity.
●Apple seeds – Apple seeds contain around 0.4–0.5 mg of amygdalin per gram. However, they are hard to digest whole.
●Almonds – Almonds provide around 0.3–0.4 mg per gram of amygdalin, concentrated in the skin and seeds.
●Millet – This gluten-free ancient grain offers 0.2–0.3 mg of amygdalin per gram of seeds.
●Flaxseeds – With 0.2 mg of amygdalin per gram of seed, flax is another great plant-based source.
●Bitter almonds – Contain significantly more amygdalin than regular almonds, around 2–9 mg per almond. Eating even a few bitter almonds can be toxic.
●Peach pits – Peach pits or seeds hold around 0.5 mg of amygdalin per gram. However, their woody texture makes them hard to eat whole.
●Cherry pits – Like their closely related apricot and peach cousins, cherry pits also contain traces of amygdalin.
Overall, apricot kernels hold the most amygdalin measured per gram. But foods like almond skins and flaxseeds still allow safe amygdalin consumption when eaten in normal amounts as part of a healthy diet.
What Fruit Has the Most Amygdalin?
Among fruits, stone fruits in the genus Prunus top the list for amygdalin content. Stone fruits have pits or stones in the fruit center. The highest amygdalin fruits are:
●Apricots – Both apricot flesh and kernels contain amygdalin, but the seeds hold the highest concentration. Just 2 apricot kernels provide about 1 mg of amygdalin.
●Plums – Plum pits also contain significant traces of amygdalin. Plums are also a good source of phenolic antioxidants.
●Peaches – Peach flesh contains some amygdalin while the seeds or pits contain higher amounts.
●Cherries – Like their other pitted fruit cousins, cherries hold low amygdalin levels in their flesh but more in the pits.
●Apples – Apple seeds feature around 0.4–0.5 mg of amygdalin per gram, concentrated in the seeds.
●Pears – Seeds of pears offer traces of amygdalin. The flesh has antioxidants like vitamin C and copper.
In moderation, snacking on whole fruits with pits like cherries, apricots, and plums offers a way to gain small amounts of vitamin B17 along with beneficial nutrients. Just be sure to avoid breaking or chewing the pits.
Where Can I Find Vitamin B17?
There are three main ways to add amygdalin or vitamin B17 to your diet:
●Eat b17 amygdalin-containing foods – Consume stone fruits, nuts, grains, and beans that naturally provide moderate amounts of this nutrient. Focus on the seeds.
●Apricot kernels – Taking a small daily dose of apricot kernels, like 1-2, adds B17 without posing serious cyanide concerns.
●Supplements – Seek out amygdalin or laetrile tablets and capsules made from apricot kernels. Use only under medical supervision at the lowest effective dose.
When incorporating this controversial nutrient, always start slowly and monitor your body’s response. Never attempt to make your own amygdalin extracts at home – leave that to professional manufacturers. With prudent use under a doctor’s guidance, amygdalin may be a beneficial addition to an integrated wellness plan.
Conclusion
Amygdalin is a natural substance found most abundantly in the seeds, kernels, and pits of stone fruits, apples, almonds, lima beans, clover, and many other plant foods. As a cyanogenic glycoside, amygdalin breaks down to release benzaldehyde and hydrocyanic acid, which can convert into tumor-targeting cyanide. In the proper doses and under medical supervision, amygdalin exhibits anticancer potential and may also benefit blood sugar, pain, immunity, and inflammation. However, toxicity risks require conservative dosing and monitoring. For those able to tolerate it, incorporating amygdalin-rich foods like apricot kernels, apple seeds, almonds, and stone fruit pits allows us to safely access the active vitamin B17 content. As research continues, amygdalin’s role in integrative oncology and functional medicine may grow. We provide you with b17 vitamin for sale, please feel free to contact us at Sales@Kintaibio.com
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References:
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