Are apple seeds poisonous?
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There is an old saying that ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’ i.e. eating an apple a day does not require a doctor. Apple is considered very beneficial for health. Many types of nutrition are found in it. Many nutrients like vitamins, fiber and minerals are found in it, which keeps away from many serious diseases. Eating apple keeps digestion healthy. Heart health is maintained and it is helpful in strengthening the immune system. Generally, people eat apples only after removing their seeds.
Many times some people swallow the seeds by mistake. In such a situation, some people believe that apple seeds contain poison, eating which is harmful for health. But do apple seeds really contain poison? Does swallowing it cause harm to health? Let us know its truth and the correct way of eating apple and what are its benefits in this article.
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Why are apple seeds considered poisonous?
Actually, a compound called amygdalin is found in apple seeds, which releases cyanide gas while chewing, which is considered poisonous. However, if seeds are consumed in small quantities then they do not harm health. Recently, in a study published in Scientific Reports journal, research was done on the shape, microstructure and many technical properties of apple seeds of Northern Himalayas. These researches mostly focused on the shape of seeds and their uses. In this study, it was explained what elements are present in apple seeds and what effect eating them can have on health.
Why are apple seeds poisonous?
Amygdalin compound is found in apple seeds. This is a type of cyanogenic glycoside. When the seeds are chewed, they break down in the body’s digestive system, which can form a poisonous element called hydrogen cyanide (HCN). However, amygdalin is not found in every seed. Or we can say that the amount of amygdalin in each seed is very less. Even if a few seeds are accidentally swallowed, our body can easily digest them. Apart from this, the outer layer of the seed also prevents this compound from coming out. In such a situation, if the seed has not been chewed, the gas called amygdalin does not come out and it is also harmful.
How many seeds can be consumed dangerous?
As we have already told that there is no harm in eating only a few selected seeds. However, according to research, if an adult person eats about 150 seeds, there can be a risk of cyanide. At the same time, eating 80 to 100 seeds is harmful for children. If health is harmed after eating seeds, then some common symptoms are seen. Like dizziness, vomiting or headache. But generally one cannot eat so many seeds at once. Therefore, even if 2-4 seeds are swallowed, there is no need to worry.
Keep these things in mind
- While eating apple, remove the seeds beforehand.
- Don’t panic if you accidentally swallow 1-2 seeds.
- Do not eat the seeds intentionally.
- Prevent children from eating apple seeds