Vitamin B17 refers to a drug called laetrile, an artificial form of amygdalin. However, no research supports it as an effective treatment and instead links it to potentially severe side effects. Most notably, taking vitamin B17 can cause the body to produce cyanide, a poisonous and dangerous chemical.
In this article, we will discuss vitamin B17, including the possible benefits, side effects, and which foods are sources of the compound.
Vitamin B17 Definition
Laetrile is a synthetic drug version of amygdalin, a substance that occurs naturally in small doses in a variety of nuts, plants, and seeds. A person can take laetrile orally or as an injection intravenously or intramuscularly. In 1920 , Dr. Ernst T. Krebs, Sr. Formulated a theory that amygdalin could be effective against cancer, but it was too toxic for humans.
Continuing his research, his son, Ernst T. Krebs, Jr, synthesized a less harmful version called laetrile in 1952. However, the FDA still does not approve or regulate laetrile, meaning batches of the drug may vary in purity and composition. Despite a lack of evidence, some people may still consider using vitamin B17 to treat cancer , sometimes as part of a metabolic therapy program.
These programs involve high doses of vitamins, a special diet, and pancreatic enzymes.
How It Works
Calling it a vitamin is a way to get around regulations for drugs.
What The Research Says
Animal and lab studies of amygdalin have mixed results.
Your blood pressure could drop very low, you may damage your liver, or you might go into a coma. Products from Mexico, the main supplier of amygdalin, have been reported with bacteria and other harmful substances in them.
What Laetrile Is
Plants like lima beans, clover and sorghum also contain amygdalin.
Some people call laetrile vitamin B17, although it isn’t a vitamin.