What should I do if I accidentally ate a bitter apricot kernel?
Oct 17, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, accidentally eating one bitter apricot kernel will not affect your health, so there is no need to worry excessively or take special measures.
Bitter apricot kernels contain cyanide, which can be hydrolyzed in the gastrointestinal tract to produce a toxic substance. However, accidentally consuming one kernel usually does not lead to food poisoning.
Generally, accidentally consuming one bitter almond will not affect your health, so there's no need to worry excessively and special treatment is usually unnecessary.
Bitter almonds contain abundant nutrients essential for the human body, such as fats, carotene, and vitamins. When consumed appropriately, they can offer various benefits including relieving constipation, moistening the intestines, alleviating asthma, and suppressing coughs, thus providing certain health advantages. However, bitter almonds contain cyanogenic compounds, which can be hydrolyzed in the gastrointestinal tract to produce a toxic substance. Accidentally eating a single bitter almond typically does not lead to food poisoning. However, excessive consumption may easily cause discomfort symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In such cases, it is recommended to promptly visit a正规 medical facility for treatments like gastric lavage, which can effectively alleviate symptoms and promote recovery.
It is advisable to consume sweet almonds instead of bitter almonds in daily life. Additionally, avoid eating almonds together with foods such as chestnuts, millet, or pork trotters, as combining them may result in food interactions that disrupt gastrointestinal function and lead to digestive discomfort.
