FDA Warning About Eating Too Much Black Licorice

[Toliver]

Who knew?

"Don't accidentally overdose on black licorice this Halloween, the FDA warns"

Quote

...Too much of the old-fashioned favorite can cause health problems such as irregular heart rhythm, especially in people over 40.
Black licorice contains a sweetening compound called glycyrrhizin, which can cause a drop in potassium levels. With low levels, some people might experience high blood pressure, swelling and even congestive heart failure, the FDA says.

I rarely eat it, but for me, a little black licorice goes along way. I do have a family friend who enjoys eating it and will have to share this warning with him.

Anyone else a fan of the candy?

[lindag]

Yes, i have a small bag in the pantry that's calling my name right now.  

I'll,have to pace myself.

[suzilightning]

I adore...love...crave...black licorice.  My grandmother and I used to pull the black jelly beans to eat ourselves.  

Unfortunately in my 20s I found out that it does cause heart problems for me and I have had to cut it out since then.

[GlorifiedRice]

Its weird that they are just warning in 2017 when this has been out for 30+ years

[curls]

I've seen that warning before. I definitely enjoy black licorice; especially Dutch licorice (but not the double salt variety)!

[ElsieD]

@curls  I love the double salt black licorice, probably because that's what I grew up with.  The black licorice sold here in Canada holds zero appeal for me.

[lesliec]

I'm very fond of the stuff but don't have it that often.  The CNN article doesn't specify what 'too much' means but the original FDA one says:

Quote

If you’re 40 or older, eating 2 ounces of black licorice a day for at least two weeks could land you in the hospital with an irregular heart rhythm or arrhythmia.

 

 

I just measured out two ounces/50 grams to see what it looked like.  It's quite a lot to consume daily for two weeks or more.  I think I'm safe!