Beware Of Apple Seeds: They May Contain Fatal Doses Of Cyanide

Apples are a popular fruit that is enjoyed by millions of people around the world. They are tasty, nutritious, and versatile, and can be eaten raw, cooked, or even made into juice. However, while the fruit itself is perfectly safe and healthy, its seeds can be deadly. 

The Chemical Composition of Apple Seeds:

Apple seeds contain a chemical compound known as amygdalin, which is also found in other plants in the Rosaceae family, such as apricot, cherry, peach, and plum. Amygdalin is a natural defense mechanism that helps protect the plant from predators. 

When the seeds are chewed or crushed, amygdalin is released, and it breaks down into several compounds, including hydrogen cyanide, a highly toxic substance that interferes with the body's ability to use oxygen. Cyanide is a deadly poison that can cause seizures, respiratory failure, and even death. 

The Lethal Dose of Apple Seeds:

The exact amount of cyanide in apple seeds varies depending on the variety and size of the apple, as well as the conditions under which it was grown. However, as a general rule, it takes about 200 milligrams of cyanide to kill an adult human, and a single apple seed contains about 0.6 milligrams of cyanide. 

This means that a person would have to finely chew and swallow about 33 apple seeds to reach a lethal dose of cyanide. However, this is not as difficult as it may sound, as many people inadvertently ingest apple seeds when they eat the fruit. 

The Risk of Apple Seed Poisoning:

While it is unlikely that anyone would intentionally eat large quantities of apple seeds, accidental ingestion can occur, especially in young children who may not know better. Symptoms of apple seed poisoning include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and confusion. 

If you suspect that someone has ingested apple seeds, seek medical attention immediately, as the symptoms of cyanide poisoning can be severe and life threatening. Treatment may involve inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal to absorb the toxins, and providing oxygen therapy to help the person breathe. 

Precautions to Avoid Apple Seed Poisoning:

To avoid the risk of apple seed poisoning, it is best to avoid eating the seeds altogether. While some people may choose to eat the seeds, believing that they have health benefits, there is no evidence to support this claim. 

If you are making apple juice or cider, be sure to remove all the seeds before juicing or pressing the fruit. Similarly, if you are cooking with apples, be sure to remove the seeds before adding them to your recipe. 

While apples are a healthy and delicious fruit, their seeds can be deadly if ingested in large quantities. To avoid the risk of cyanide poisoning, it is best to avoid eating the seeds and to remove them before juicing or cooking with apples. If you suspect that someone has ingested apple seeds, seek medical attention immediately, as the symptoms of cyanide poisoning can be severe and life threatening. Your Thoughts Readers....

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