What are the hazards and side effects of cassava flour?
Feb 14, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Bai Hongmei
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the risks and side effects of cassava flour include cyanide poisoning, exacerbation of thyroid problems, blood sugar fluctuations, increased risk of obesity, and nutritional imbalances. In daily life, when purchasing cassava flour, it is important to choose products from reputable sources that ensure quality. Additionally, when consuming cassava flour products, make sure they are thoroughly cooked to destroy any residual cyanide.
Generally speaking, the risks and side effects of cassava flour include cyanide poisoning, exacerbation of thyroid issues, blood sugar fluctuations, increased risk of obesity, and nutritional imbalances. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Cyanide Poisoning
Cassava flour is processed from cassava roots, which naturally contain certain amounts of cyanogenic glycosides that can decompose and produce hydrogen cyanide under specific conditions. If cassava flour is improperly processed and residual cyanide is not adequately removed, consumption may lead to cyanide poisoning, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headache, and difficulty breathing.
2. Exacerbation of Thyroid Problems
Some components in cassava may interfere with the thyroid's absorption and utilization of iodine. For individuals with existing thyroid dysfunction, such as goiter or hypothyroidism, excessive consumption of cassava flour may worsen their condition.
3. Blood Sugar Fluctuations
Cassava flour is rich in starch and has a relatively high glycemic index. For individuals with diabetes or those needing strict blood sugar control, excessive consumption of cassava flour may cause rapid increases in blood glucose levels, which is detrimental to stable blood sugar management and increases the risk of complications.
4. Increased Risk of Obesity
Cassava flour is relatively high in calories. If consumed in large amounts over a prolonged period without sufficient physical activity to expend the corresponding calories, the excess energy may be converted into body fat, thereby increasing the risk of obesity.
5. Nutritional Imbalance
If the diet excessively relies on cassava flour while reducing the intake of other foods rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients, it may lead to nutritional imbalance, which can affect normal physiological functions and overall health.
In daily life, when purchasing cassava flour, it is important to choose products from reputable sources that ensure quality and safety. Additionally, cassava flour products should be thoroughly cooked before consumption to help eliminate any residual cyanide.
