As a health and nutrition expert, I always emphasize the importance of evidence-based information when discussing supplements and their safety. The topic of vitamin B17 is a complex one, often shrouded in misinformation and controversy. Let's delve into the scientific aspects and the safety concerns associated with it.

Firstly, it's crucial to clarify that there is no scientifically recognized vitamin known as vitamin B17. The term has been inaccurately applied to a compound called laetrile, which is a synthetic form of a naturally occurring substance called amygdalin. Amygdalin is found in the seeds of certain fruits such as apricots, peaches, and almonds.

Laetrile gained notoriety in the mid-20th century as a proposed alternative cancer treatment. Advocates claimed that it could selectively target and kill cancer cells by releasing cyanide within them. However, this theory has been largely discredited due to a lack of scientific evidence supporting its efficacy and safety. In fact, the release of cyanide from amygdalin can be potentially toxic, not only to cancer cells but also to normal cells.

The human body does not have the enzymes necessary to convert amygdalin into cyanide, which is why consuming it directly is not typically harmful. However, if the amygdalin is broken down by the enzymes found in the digestive tract, it can release cyanide, leading to a condition known as cyanide poisoning. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning can range from mild, such as headache and dizziness, to severe, including seizures, coma, and even death.

It's important to note that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved laetrile as a safe and effective cancer treatment. Moreover, it is classified as a drug and is not legally available for sale in the United States. Other countries have similar regulations, recognizing the potential risks associated with its use.

When considering the safety of any supplement or substance, it's essential to look at the totality of the evidence. In the case of vitamin B17, there is no substantial scientific evidence to suggest that it is safe or effective for any health condition, let alone cancer. The risks associated with cyanide release far outweigh any perceived benefits.

In conclusion, while the term vitamin B17 is often used in discussions about alternative medicine and cancer treatments, it refers to a substance that has been discredited and is not recognized as a vitamin by the scientific community. The potential toxicity of amygdalin, from which laetrile is derived, makes it a substance to approach with caution. Always consult with a healthcare professional before considering the use of any supplement, especially those with controversial histories and unsubstantiated claims.

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There is no vitamin B17. The term is inaccurately applied to laetrile, a discredited cancer drug, and amygdalin, the natural substance from which laetrile is made. ... Amygdalin occurs in the seeds of apricots, peaches, and almonds. It can release cyanide when eaten, making it potentially toxic.read more >>