Vitamin B17, a name that we have hardly heard when talking about vitamins. So what is vitamin B17 and what special uses does it have?
Vitamin B17, also known as Laetrile and Amygdalin, is a compound that has caused scientists to argue about its ability to fight cancer. Vitamin B17 is found in many plants. Notably, it is abundant in the seeds (kernels) of apricots, apples, peaches, plums, bitter almonds, etc.
Vitamin B17 is not actually a vitamin.
Learn about vitamin B17
Since the early 1950s, both amygdalin and a chemical derivative called laetrile have been promoted as potential alternative cancer treatments, often mistakenly referred to as vitamin B17. But in fact, neither Laetrile nor Amygdalin are vitamins. Furthermore, clinical studies have shown that they are not clinically effective in treating cancer, and can be toxic or fatal when taken orally due to cyanide poisoning.
Effects of vitamin B17
Vitamin B17 can be prescribed for use in cases where it is necessary to strengthen the immune system, fight cancer, relieve pain, and reduce blood pressure.
In addition to the above effects, you can learn about other effects of vitamin B17 through the advice of your doctor.
How should vitamin B17 be used?
Although vitamin B17 is believed to have the ability to support cancer treatment as well as improve health, it does not mean that you can use it arbitrarily. Abuse can cause problems that damage the body.
For adults, vitamin B17 can be taken orally or by injection. For initial treatment, vitamin B17 is often used in the form of injections (intramuscular or intravenous injections) for a short time. It can then be switched to oral form for maintenance treatment.
For children, there is currently no research and determination of whether using vitamin B17 is dangerous for children or not. Therefore, before using, you should consult a doctor or medical professional.
Foods providing vitamin B17
Nuts (fruit seeds)
Apricot seeds are one of the leading foods providing vitamin B17. That is why for a long time, when there were many rumors about vitamin B17’s ability to prevent cancer, apricot seeds were used by many people. Although the results of using this type of seed have not been verified, it is still a food that can provide vitamin B17 to the body.
In addition to apricot seeds, you can also find vitamin B17 in plums, peaches, cherries, apples, pears, flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, millet.
Apricot kernels are a top food source of vitamin B17.
Nuts
Nuts are always rich in nutrients, including minerals and protein. Developing the habit of eating nuts will help you maintain good health. Nuts also contain a lot of vitamin B17, with bitter almonds at the top, followed by macadamia nuts and finally cashews.
Fruits
Raspberries, strawberries, grapes, blueberries and blackberries are fruits that contain a lot of vitamin B17. Adding these fruits to your diet will help you improve your health and limit diseases very well.
Beans
Beans such as lima beans, garbanzo beans, fava beans, black beans, kidney beans, etc. are some of the beans rich in vitamin B17, besides they also contain a lot of vegetable protein which is very good for health. The protein in nuts can even replace meat, very suitable for vegetarians.
Not only are beans a rich source of protein, they are also rich in vitamin B17.
Dietary supplements
In addition to natural foods, you can quickly supplement vitamin B17 with supplements outside of meals. However, use must follow the instructions of a doctor or health professional because self-use can lead to overdose or cause potential health risks.
Is it okay to overdose on vitamin B17?
Vitamin B17 is usually well tolerated and not toxic. However, in some cases, side effects similar to cyanide poisoning – a neurotoxin that causes many side effects, including nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, pale skin due to lack of hemoglobin in the blood, abnormal blood pressure, liver damage. Failure to treat promptly can lead to death.