This food can cause hypertension, health authorities urge caution
We sometimes unknowingly consume foods that can be dangerous to our health. Health authorities warn of the risks associated with consuming a food that can, in particular, cause high blood pressure, a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks or strokes. It can also cause hypokalemia, a decrease in potassium in the blood that can also be dangerous for the heart. "More than a hundred cases of adverse effects, sometimes severe," have been reported in France after consuming it, according to the French National Agency for Food Safety (ANSES).
That food is licorice. While not everyone consumes it in candy form, licorice is more present in our diets than you might think. It is, in fact, "used as an ingredient in certain dietary supplements and as an additive to flavor drinks and foods," sometimes listed under the name of "its main active ingredient, glycyrrhizic acid," specifies ANSES. Licorice is present in candy, chewing gum, ice cream, as well as certain drinks like pastis and beer.
The problem is that licorice is only indicated in foods and dietary supplements above a certain threshold, where it must be stated "people suffering from hypertension should avoid excessive consumption." But for ANSES, it would be necessary that "the presence, even in small quantities, of licorice or its main active constituent, glycyrrhizic acid," be indicated.
Especially since the majority—60% of adults—who consume licorice "exceed the toxicological reference level" established by ANSES. People suffering from hypertension aren't the only ones at risk from licorice consumption. "Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, as well as people suffering from cardiovascular problems (particularly hypertension), kidney problems, or liver problems are particularly susceptible," according to ANSES.
People taking certain medications (laxatives, antihypertensives, hypokalemic diuretics, etc.) should also be particularly vigilant, since "risks of interaction have been described," according to ANSES. If you have any doubts about your licorice consumption, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional.
L'Internaute
