What happens if you eat too many betel nuts?

Long-term excessive betel nut chewing may cause health problems. Chemical substances in betel nuts can irritate the oral mucosa, leading to oral submucous fibrosis, which can develop into oral cancer in severe cases. Betel nut residue can cause significant tooth wear, possibly resulting in periodontal disease and tooth loss. The alkaline substances in betel nuts can erode the enamel surface of the teeth, causing discoloration, brittleness, increased fragility, and even tooth sensitivity and pain. Residual betel nut particles may also become lodged between teeth, forming dental calculus and compromising dental health. Long-term chewing may also affect the digestive system, causing gastrointestinal discomfort such as gastritis and peptic ulcers. Alkaloids present in betel nuts may lead to dependency, resulting in addiction-like behavior.

Excessive betel nut consumption can cause multiple adverse effects on the body. It is recommended to avoid betel nut use as much as possible. If you already have the habit of chewing betel nuts, it is advisable to quit as early as possible and maintain good oral hygiene. If symptoms arise, seek medical attention promptly.