Licorice is a small shrub widely grown in Greece, Turkey, and parts of Asia for commercial use. Its root has been a popular ingredient in traditional medicine, both in Eastern and Western cultures, for centuries.
People have used licorice root to address a variety of health problems, including heartburn, stomach ulcers, bronchitis, sore throat, cough, and certain viral infections like hepatitis.
Beyond its medicinal uses, licorice root is also a key ingredient in black licorice candy, which many people enjoy as a treat, especially during holidays. However, while black licorice may seem harmless, experts have warned that eating too much can have serious health risks.
A recent study from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) highlights these concerns.
Researchers found that consuming large amounts of black licorice could lead to high blood pressure and irregular heart rhythms, also known as arrhythmias. These problems are particularly dangerous for people over the age of 40.
The risk comes from a natural compound in licorice root called glycyrrhizin, which is used to give black licorice its distinctive sweet flavor. Glycyrrhizin affects potassium levels in the body.
Normally, potassium helps regulate heart function and muscle activity, but consuming too much glycyrrhizin can cause potassium levels to drop.
This imbalance can lead to symptoms such as abnormal heart rhythms, high blood pressure, swelling, fatigue, and in severe cases, congestive heart failure.
The FDA researchers noted that even eating two ounces of black licorice daily for two weeks could have harmful effects on heart health.
While these effects are often reversible once people stop eating black licorice, they can still pose a serious health risk, particularly for older adults or those with pre-existing heart conditions.
The study also warns that black licorice can interact with certain medications, herbs, and dietary supplements. For example, it may make some medications less effective or increase their side effects.
This makes it important for people who regularly take medications to be cautious about eating large amounts of black licorice.
The researchers emphasize that people who experience symptoms like irregular heartbeats or muscle weakness after eating black licorice should stop consuming it immediately and consult a doctor.
They also advise everyone, even healthy individuals, to avoid eating large amounts of black licorice at once.
While black licorice can be a nostalgic and enjoyable snack, this study serves as a reminder that moderation is key.
Overindulgence, especially for those at higher risk of heart problems, can lead to unexpected and potentially serious health issues. If you’re a fan of black licorice, it’s best to enjoy it sparingly to keep your heart healthy.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies about unhealthy habits that could increase high blood pressure risk, and eating eggs in a healthy diet may reduce risks of diabetes, high blood pressure.
For more information about blood pressure, please see recent studies that early time-restricted eating could help improve blood pressure, and results showing 12 foods that lower blood pressure.
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