A man in Massachusetts collapsed and died after consuming excessive amounts of licorice, according to a recent publication in The New England Journal of Medicine. The 54-year-old construction worker had no history of heart problems, but doctors discovered a severe potassium deficiency during their investigation into his sudden death. The man had reportedly been consuming at least one bag of licorice per day in the weeks leading up to his collapse. Licorice contains glycyrrhizin, a sweetener that can cause high blood pressure, nutrient loss, and headaches in high doses. In this case, it is likely that the excessive consumption of licorice caused the potassium deficiency that led to the man’s heart failure.
This is not the first time that components of the licorice plant have caused medical problems. A man in Montreal experienced extremely high blood pressure after drinking one to two glasses of licorice tea per day for two weeks. Additionally, ammonium chloride, which is often found in licorice, can cause neurological disorders, nausea, and vomiting in high doses. In Germany, products with high levels of ammonium chloride are labeled as “adult licorice,” and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns against consuming black licorice in excess. According to the FDA, consuming two ounces (approximately 60 grams) of black licorice per day for two weeks can cause heart rhythm problems.
It is important to note that licorice is not inherently dangerous, but excessive consumption can lead to serious health problems. Experts recommend that individuals limit their intake of licorice and other foods containing glycyrrhizin, especially if they have a history of heart problems or high blood pressure. As with any dietary supplement or food, moderation is key to maintaining good health.
