Is death hidden in apple seeds? What science says

Recently, a scene from a drama called 'Mayapakhi' has sparked widespread discussion on social media. In the story of the drama, the heroine dies after eating apple seeds. Since then, many people have been wondering - are apple seeds really that poisonous? Can eating a few seeds by mistake put your life at risk?

Despite various discussions and confusions on social media about the issue, it is important to know what science has to say about it. Let's find out the real truth about apple seeds in simple terms.

What is actually in apple seeds?

Apple seeds contain a natural chemical compound called Amygdalin. This is a compound that is found not only in apples, but also in the seeds of many other fruits. For example, this element is present in the seeds of various fruits including cherries, apricots, peaches.

Amygdalin itself is not directly poisonous. However, it can break down in the body during digestion to form hydrogen cyanide, which is known to be a highly toxic chemical.

So are apple seeds dangerous to eat?

Here is the most important point. The risk of harm from apple seeds mainly depends on the amount and how the seeds are eaten. Usually, there is no problem if a few seeds are accidentally swallowed. This is because the outer shell of the seeds is quite hard, so it is not easily digested. As a result, the contents of the seeds are excreted from the body before they are released.

However, if the seeds are chewed or crushed, then amygdalin can be released and enter the body and there is a possibility of cyanide being produced from there. But even in small amounts, it usually does not reach harmful levels.

How much can be dangerous?

Various studies have shown that a very large amount of seeds must be consumed to pose a risk of poisoning for an adult. According to researchers, about 150 to several thousand chewed seeds may be eaten to reach a dangerous level. On the other hand, eating about 20 to 40 crushed apple seeds together can pose a risk.

However, an apple usually contains only 5 to 8 seeds. So, it is almost impossible to accidentally get poisoned by eating an apple.

How does cyanide harm the body?

If excessive amounts of cyanide enter the body, it blocks the process of using oxygen in the cells.

As a result, the body falls into a state of ‘internal suffocation’. This can result in—

> Dizziness

> Nausea or vomiting

> Shortness of breath

> Weakness

> In severe cases, death

However, the amount of cyanide required to create such a situation is generally not available by eating a few apple seeds.

So is it safe to eat apples?

Of course, it is safe. Apples are considered one of the healthiest fruits in the world. It contains a lot of fiber, vitamins, antioxidants and various beneficial nutrients, which play an important role in heart health, digestion and overall well-being. So there is no reason to be afraid of eating apples.

Warning

Although apple seeds are generally not harmful, it is still better to follow some precautions—

✔ Avoid intentionally eating large amounts of seeds.

✔ It is better to separate the seeds when feeding apples to children.

✔ Avoid chewing or crushing the seeds if you have a habit of eating them.

It is true that apple seeds contain toxic compounds. However, there is no reason to panic unnecessarily over that information. Because in reality, the risk of poisoning or death from eating a few apple seeds is very low and almost impossible.

So, there is no need to worry even if you accidentally eat one or two seeds while eating an apple. Rather, it is beneficial for health to include this nutritious fruit in your diet regularly. It is wiser to give importance to scientific truth rather than information spread through dramas or social media.

Sources: Healthline, Medical News Today.