The Sources of Vitamin B17: An In-Depth Exploration
Vitamin B17, also known as amygdalin or laetrile, has garnered considerable attention over the years, primarily due to its controversial use in alternative medicine, particularly in cancer treatment. Despite the controversies surrounding its efficacy and safety, it remains an interesting and widely discussed compound in the field of nutrition and alternative health. This article aims to explore the natural sources of Vitamin B17, its potential health benefits, the scientific perspectives on its use, and the associated risks. By understanding these aspects, we can better appreciate the complex role that Vitamin B17 plays in human health.
What Is Vitamin B17?
Vitamin B17 is a naturally occurring compound found in a variety of foods, most notably in the seeds of fruits such as apricots, peaches, and apples. It is part of a family of compounds known as cyanogenic glycosides, which release cyanide when metabolized. While the term “Vitamin B17” is commonly used, it is not recognized as a vitamin in the traditional sense by most health organizations, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The term “B17” is a misnomer, as it does not meet the criteria for being classified as a vitamin.
Amygdalin, the compound most often referred to as Vitamin B17, is primarily found in the seeds and pits of certain fruits. Despite its potential to release cyanide, small amounts of amygdalin are generally considered non-toxic when consumed as part of whole foods. However, there has been ongoing debate regarding the potential health risks of consuming larger quantities of amygdalin, particularly in concentrated forms such as laetrile supplements.
Natural Sources of Vitamin B17
Vitamin B17 is found in a variety of plant foods, particularly in the seeds and kernels of fruits. Below are some of the most notable natural sources of amygdalin:
1. Apricot Seeds
Apricot seeds (or kernels) are often considered the most significant source of Vitamin B17. They are consumed raw or ground into a powder for use in various health supplements. Advocates of amygdalin therapy claim that apricot seeds have cancer-fighting properties, though these claims remain controversial and unsupported by scientific evidence.
2. Peach Pits
Like apricots, peach pits also contain significant amounts of amygdalin. Traditionally, peach pits have been used in alternative medicine, particularly in Chinese herbalism, to treat a variety of ailments. While peach pits are rich in amygdalin, they are also known for their bitter taste, which may deter some individuals from consuming them.
3. Bitter Almonds
Bitter almonds are another well-known source of Vitamin B17. Unlike sweet almonds, which are commonly eaten raw or roasted, bitter almonds contain higher levels of amygdalin and are typically used in the production of almond oil, extracts, and flavorings. Bitter almonds, however, are not commonly consumed as a snack due to their bitterness and the potential risks associated with amygdalin.
4. Apple Seeds
Apple seeds contain small amounts of amygdalin, though they are not typically consumed in large enough quantities to pose a significant risk. While apple seeds are generally regarded as safe when ingested in moderation, the consumption of large quantities could lead to cyanide poisoning due to the cyanogenic glycosides they contain.
5. Plum and Cherry Pits
Pits from plums, cherries, and other stone fruits contain varying amounts of amygdalin. While the seeds of these fruits are not commonly consumed, they are included in some alternative health remedies, such as tinctures and extracts. The amount of Vitamin B17 present in these seeds is generally low, but when consumed in large amounts, they may pose health risks.
6. Other Sources
In addition to the primary sources mentioned above, Vitamin B17 is also present in lesser amounts in a variety of other fruits, vegetables, and grains, including:
- Lima beans
- Soybeans
- Sprouts of certain plants
- Buckwheat
However, these sources contain significantly lower concentrations of amygdalin compared to the seeds of stone fruits like apricots and peaches.
The Controversy Around Vitamin B17
Vitamin B17 has been the subject of much debate, especially in the context of cancer treatment. Proponents of alternative medicine have long claimed that amygdalin (or laetrile) can cure cancer by selectively killing cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed. These claims have led to the use of laetrile as a treatment for cancer, particularly in the 1970s, when it was promoted as an alternative therapy.
However, scientific research has not substantiated these claims. A comprehensive review of the available clinical evidence by the American Cancer Society concluded that there is no reliable scientific evidence to support the use of Vitamin B17 or laetrile in the treatment of cancer. Additionally, the use of laetrile as a cancer treatment has been linked to serious health risks, including cyanide poisoning, due to the compound’s ability to release cyanide when metabolized in the body.
Despite the lack of scientific backing, some individuals continue to use laetrile and amygdalin as part of their cancer treatment regimen. This has led to the regulation of laetrile in many countries, including the United States, where it is banned as a treatment for cancer by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In certain cases, laetrile is still available in alternative health clinics, often in the form of intravenous injections or oral tablets, but its use remains highly controversial.
Health Risks and Safety Concerns
While small amounts of Vitamin B17 from natural sources like apricot seeds and apple cores are not considered dangerous, there are significant health risks associated with the consumption of concentrated forms of amygdalin, particularly in large quantities.
When amygdalin is broken down in the body, it releases cyanide, a potent toxin. Cyanide can interfere with the body’s ability to use oxygen, potentially leading to symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headache, confusion, and in severe cases, respiratory failure and death. The risk of cyanide poisoning is higher when amygdalin is consumed in large quantities, such as when individuals use laetrile supplements or take concentrated doses of apricot seeds.
Symptoms of cyanide poisoning may include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rapid heart rate
- Shortness of breath
- Seizures
The severity of cyanide poisoning depends on the amount of amygdalin consumed and the individual’s health status. Vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and those with compromised liver or kidney function, may be more susceptible to the toxic effects of cyanide.
Conclusion
Vitamin B17, or amygdalin, is a naturally occurring compound found in various seeds and pits of fruits such as apricots, peaches, and apples. Despite its association with alternative cancer treatments, the use of Vitamin B17 remains highly controversial, with scientific evidence failing to support its effectiveness in treating cancer. While small amounts of amygdalin from natural food sources are generally considered safe, concentrated forms of amygdalin, particularly in supplements or injections, can be dangerous and even life-threatening due to the release of cyanide.
As with many alternative health treatments, it is important for individuals to approach the use of Vitamin B17 with caution and to consult with a healthcare professional before considering its use, especially in high doses. Further research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of amygdalin, but for now, it is clear that moderation is key when consuming foods that contain this compound.
Given the current lack of scientific consensus on its health benefits, it is advisable for individuals to focus on a well-balanced diet rich in proven nutrients and to seek evidence-based treatments for serious health conditions, including cancer.