Healthy Foods That Can Kill You - Part 1

Published January 04, 2012

A co-worker sent this to me and I found it to be important enough to share.  I'm posting this in parts because I feel each one should be read and remembered.  So, here is Part 1 of Healthy Foods That Can Kill You.

Most everyone admits that they don’t eat enough fruits and vegetables, but before you start trying to increase your daily intake, there are a few things you should know—especially if you like to grow-your-own food or if you're a start-from-scratch cook. Some of the healthiest vegetables have relatives that could kill you.

Seeds, Pits & Kernels
 
The unsavory seeds, pits, and kernels of some of our favorite fruits and vegetables contain a naturally occurring substance called amygdalin, which in large amounts can be fatal since amygdaline can turn into hydrogen cyanide. Apples, pears, mangoes, peaches, and apricots, all contain this chemical, but don’t worry: Accidental swallowing or the occasional ingestion is not dangerous since the amount needed to induce a reaction is very high