Understanding Vitamin B17: Uses, Benefits, Risks, and Food Sources

Worldsfeed Health Desk: Vitamin B17, also known as laetrile or amygdalin, has gained attention over the years as a possible alternative cancer treatment, though it remains highly controversial. Originally derived from certain plants, nuts, and fruit seeds, this compound’s safety and efficacy have been widely debated. While often labeled a “vitamin,” it lacks formal recognition as one, and researchers have highlighted significant concerns regarding its safety due to its potential to produce cyanide, a toxic chemical. Here, we dive deep into what vitamin B17 is, explore its possible benefits and side effects, discuss its association with cancer treatment, and identify common food sources.

What Is Vitamin B17?

Vitamin B17 refers to laetrile, a synthetic version of amygdalin, a compound found naturally in the seeds of certain fruits and other plants. In the 1920s, Dr. Ernst T. Krebs, Sr. proposed amygdalin as an anticancer treatment, but it proved toxic in its natural form. In 1952, his son synthesized laetrile, a modified and supposedly less toxic version, which he marketed as “vitamin B17,” although it’s not a recognized vitamin. Laetrile is typically administered orally, intramuscularly, or intravenously.

Despite its long history, the FDA does not approve laetrile as a safe or effective drug for any treatment, and it remains largely unregulated, meaning quality and purity can vary among manufacturers.

Possible Benefits of Vitamin B17

Some early studies and anecdotal reports have hinted at possible health benefits of amygdalin, but rigorous scientific evidence remains scarce:

1. Blood Pressure Reduction
   One study suggested that apricot kernels, which contain amygdalin, might reduce blood pressure. However, this study lacked a control group, making the findings unreliable.
2. Pain Relief
   Animal studies on rats indicated that amygdalin may have some pain-relieving effects. However, human studies are lacking, and there is no verified evidence to suggest its efficacy in pain management.
3. Potential Anticancer Properties (Anecdotal)
   Proponents claim that laetrile might fight cancer by targeting cancer cells. However, research in living humans has not substantiated these claims, and most supportive evidence is anecdotal rather than scientific.

Overall, any potential benefits are largely speculative, and more human-based research is necessary before laetrile can be considered effective or safe.

Side Effects and Risks of Vitamin B17

One of the major concerns with vitamin B17 is that it can convert into cyanide, a toxic chemical, especially when taken orally:

• Cyanide Poisoning
  The human body can convert amygdalin into cyanide, which is extremely toxic. Approximately 500 mg of amygdalin may release up to 30 mg of cyanide in the digestive system. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning range from mild (headache, nausea, and weakness) to severe (coma, cardiac arrest, and even death).
• Amplifying Foods
  Certain foods and supplements can increase the conversion of amygdalin to cyanide. These include:
  • Vitamin C
  • Certain fruits and vegetables like carrots, celery, and bean sprouts
  • Raw almonds, crushed fruit pits, apricots, peaches, and beans

If taking laetrile, avoiding these foods is advised due to their potential to increase cyanide levels. The intravenous form of laetrile is slightly safer since it bypasses the digestive system, reducing cyanide conversion.

Vitamin B17 and Cancer

Laetrile has been used as an alternative cancer treatment since the 1800s, often as part of “metabolic therapy” programs that include high doses of vitamins, special diets, and pancreatic enzymes. However, rigorous studies on both humans and animals have consistently found no evidence that laetrile effectively treats or prevents cancer. The FDA banned laetrile in 1977 due to a lack of supporting evidence, and clinical trials have shown it to be ineffective and potentially dangerous.

Some laboratory studies have shown laetrile might reduce tumor cell proliferation in isolated settings, but these findings have not translated into clinical effectiveness in humans. The few case studies supporting laetrile’s cancer-fighting properties rely on anecdotal reports or opinions rather than scientific proof.

Food Sources of Vitamin B17

Amygdalin occurs naturally in various foods, although the concentrations are usually too low to cause harm when consumed in moderate amounts. Common food sources include:

• Bitter Almonds
  Bitter almonds contain the highest levels of amygdalin. However, raw bitter almonds are often avoided due to the risk of cyanide release.
• Fruit Seeds and Pits
  Apricot kernels are particularly high in amygdalin, as are the seeds of peaches, apples, and cherries.
• Other Sources
  Small amounts of amygdalin can be found in certain grains, beans, flax seeds, and some vegetables, like bean sprouts and carrots.

These foods are generally safe to eat when not combined with laetrile. However, individuals taking laetrile may want to avoid these foods, as they can potentially increase the conversion of amygdalin to cyanide.

Summary

Vitamin B17, or laetrile, is a synthetic derivative of amygdalin, a natural compound found in seeds, nuts, and some plants. Marketed controversially as an alternative cancer treatment, no scientific evidence supports its efficacy, and the risk of cyanide poisoning is significant. While there may be minor anecdotal claims of benefits like blood pressure reduction or pain relief, any potential positive effects are overshadowed by safety concerns. For anyone considering laetrile, understanding the risks is essential, and medical guidance is strongly recommended.