What Foods Contain Vitamin B17

We are all aware that vitamins are required for normal functioning of the human body. Vitamin A, B, C, D, E and K are the most important vitamins that are required daily by the human body. Vitamin B is a known as vitamin B complex as it consists of vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12, etc. There is another vitamin included in the B complex group, and that is vitamin V17. Vitamin B17 is commonly known as Laetrile. It is a modified form of amygdalin and is popularly used as a cancer cure. One of the most important point to note is that although known as a vitamin, it is actually a glycoside. It occurs naturally and is found in several foods. Take a look at the following list of foods rich in vitamin B17.

Sources of Vitamin B17

Vitamin B17 is found in highest quantity in bitter almonds. This vitamin is usually found in seeds and pits of fruits. These parts of the fruit are usually not consumed by human beings. It is also found in high quantities in beans and nuts. Following is a list of sources of vitamin B17.

Fruits

• Blackberry
• Choke cherry
• Currant
• Cranberry
• Elderberry
• Gooseberry
• Mulberry
• Raspberry

Seeds

• Apple seeds
• Apricot seeds
• Cherry seeds
• Flax seeds
• Nectarine seeds
• Pear seeds
• Peach seeds
• Plum seeds
• Squash seeds

Beans

• Black beans
• Fava beans
• Garbanzo beans
• Green peas
• Kidney beans
• Lima beans
• Lentils
• Moong

Nuts

• Bitter almonds
• Cashews
• Macadamia nuts

Miscellaneous

• Alfalfa sprouts
• Acacia
• Bamboo shoots
• Fuschia plant
• Milkweed
• Sorghum
• Watercress
• Whole grains
• Yams

Among the list of foods containing B17 mentioned above, all the seeds, bitter almonds, blackberry, alfalfa, fava beans, etc. contain highest amounts of vitamin B 17. As mentioned above, this vitamins has been widely claimed as a natural preventive for cancer. However, it should be noted that there are no medical reports to support the claim. There is hardly any evidence to prove the claim that this vitamin effectively helps in prevention of cancer. Laetrile, in the form of supplement, is not used in several parts of the United States as it is unlawful. There is a higher risk of toxicity caused due to intake of this supplement.

Apart from its claimed use in treatment or natural prevention of cancer, there are several other health benefits associated with this vitamin. It is believed to help in lowering high blood pressure or hypertension. Secondly, it is also believed to have a positive effect on the immune system. Vitamin B17 helps in strengthening the immune system. On the other hand, it is also beneficial in improving one's overall health and maintaining it. However, it is not recommended or used on a large-scale because of the potential toxicity associated with it. The metabolism of amygdalin in the human body produces hydrogen cyanide; which is a fatal product. Therefore, one should remember that oral administration of Laetrile can be lethal and hence, it should be avoided. Use of Laetrile orally, in the form of medication or supplements is banned and should be avoided under any conditions. The only way to have vitamin B17 is through the natural sources. As there are numerous sources of this vitamin, it can be easily obtained and consumed naturally.

Lastly, it should be noted that too much of anything can also cause side effects. Although, there are natural sources of vitamin B17, they should not be consumed in excess. It is wise to consult the doctor before consuming any foods for the purpose of gaining vitamin B17. Take care!