Is Excessive Black Licorice Dangerous?
Will Too Much Black Licorice Kill You?
Black licorice is one of those polarizing treats—you either can’t get enough of it or simply can’t stand the taste. But if you’re a fan, you might have heard alarming stories about its potential dangers. Have you ever wondered if eating too much black licorice can actually be lethal? Let’s break down the facts in simple terms so you can enjoy your treat safely.
Understanding the Risks
Although deaths from black licorice are extremely rare, there are real cases that warn us to keep moderation in mind. Regular, high consumption of black licorice can lead to a condition called pseudohyperaldosteronism. This means your body starts to mimic the effects of having too much of a hormone called aldosterone, which can cause high blood pressure, low potassium levels, and even disrupt your heart’s rhythm.
- Case reports describe situations where people developed severe symptoms after eating large amounts daily.
- One report shared about a 54-year-old man who suffered an irregular heartbeat after switching from fruity candies to large quantities of black licorice.
- Another case involved a 55-year-old woman whose blood pressure spiked after years of heavy licorice consumption.
How Does It Affect Your Body?
Black licorice gets its unique flavor from a compound called glycyrrhizic acid—which is actually 50 times sweeter than regular sugar! Your body converts it into glycyrrhetinic acid, which is safe in small amounts. However, if you consume too much, this acid interferes with how your body processes cortisol, a hormone involved in stress and blood pressure regulation. This interference can lead to pseudohyperaldosteronism, where your blood pressure rises and potassium levels drop.
Recommended Limits and Safe Consumption
For the majority of healthy adults, organizations like the World Health Organization suggest that up to 100 mg per day of glycyrrhizic acid is safe. That roughly equals 2–2.5 ounces (60–70 grams) of licorice. However, the exact amount can vary depending on the product, so always check labels. Even the Food and Drug Administration warns that consuming around 2 ounces (about 57 grams) daily for a couple of weeks might be risky for those aged 40 or older.
Precautions to Consider
If you have any pre-existing heart or kidney issues, it’s crucial to be cautious. Black licorice has a long half-life in your body, which means that harmful compounds can build up over time if you snack on it frequently. Think of it this way: moderation is key, especially if you already have risk factors for high blood pressure or electrolyte imbalances.
The Bottom Line
While black licorice can be a delightful treat for many, consuming too much can have serious effects on your health by triggering pseudohyperaldosteronism. For healthy adults, sticking to about 2–2.5 ounces per day (or less) is a good rule of thumb. If you have health concerns, especially related to your heart or kidneys, consider either cutting back significantly or exploring safer alternatives.
Just one tip: If you can’t part with your licorice cravings, why not try red licorice? Unlike its black counterpart, red licorice doesn’t contain glycyrrhizic acid. Brands like Twizzlers offer indulgent flavors such as strawberry, chocolate, and cherry, letting you savor the taste without worrying about the extra risk.