Bitter almonds are known to be poisonous to everyone, but for regular sweet almonds and processed almonds, people's guard is not as high. Many people regard them as their favorite snack and can't get enough of them. Eating too many sweet almonds can also lead to poisoning, so it is not advisable to eat too many.
Generally speaking, cultivated apricot trees mostly produce sweet almonds, while wild ones are mostly bitter almonds. Bitter almonds are generally used for medicinal purposes, and their toxicity is dozens of times higher than that of regular sweet almonds. However, the toxic side effects of sweet almonds should not be underestimated. Many ancient Chinese medical books record that almonds have "minor toxicity" or are "toxic". Research has found that the toxicity of almonds comes from amygdalin in their composition. It can be converted into hydrocyanic acid in the body through the action of enzymes. Excessive consumption of almonds can cause hydrocyanic acid poisoning, and in severe cases, it can inhibit the medullary respiratory center and lead to death.
Clinically, cases of poisoning caused by eating large amounts of sweet almonds are often seen, mostly occurring in early summer when apricots are ripe. The toxic reactions in mild cases manifest as general weakness, a grayish complexion, and occasional vomiting; in severe cases, death can result from respiratory failure.
The key to preventing almond poisoning is to control the amount of almonds consumed, whether for medicinal or edible purposes, and whether they are sweet or bitter. The daily intake should not exceed 12 grams. Once almond poisoning is detected, seek medical attention promptly. For people with weak digestive systems, Director Liu suggests that it is best to eat fewer almonds. Almonds contain a large amount of fatty acids, which can cause or worsen diarrhea in infants and people with loose stools. For these mild discomfort symptoms caused by almonds, you can also use 60 grams of apricot bark with the rough skin scraped off, decocted in water for drinking, or drink plum juice to relieve the symptoms.
There is no denying that as long as the daily amount of almonds eaten is controlled within a reasonable range, almonds are very beneficial to the human body. Almonds have many pharmacological effects, such as moistening the lungs and beautifying the skin, relieving coughs and reducing phlegm, and moistening the intestines and promoting bowel movements. They are suitable for all ages. Recent research has found that almonds are also anti-cancer fruits. A new study by American researchers shows that people with normal or slightly elevated cholesterol levels can replace low-nutrient-density foods in their diet with almonds to lower blood cholesterol and maintain heart health.