Locations:
Search IconSearch

Why Black Licorice Can Make Your Heart Skip a Beat — Literally

Popular candy contains potassium-lowering compound

black licorice heart issues helpful black licorice

Black licorice has been a fan favorite for generations. While this tasty treat is enjoyable for most people, for some, it can literally make their heart skip a beat.

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

Registered dietitian Katherine Patton, MEd, RD, CSSD, LD, says eating too much black licorice can make your heart skip a beat or two — or even more. Though it happens rarely, black licorice can cause an irregular heartbeat in some people and an excess may cause serious harm.

The dangers of decreased potassium

Black licorice contains a compound that comes from licorice root that can lower your potassium levels. Lower potassium levels can cause those abnormal heart arrhythmias.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration experts blame glycyrrhizin, the sweetening compound derived from the licorice root. This compound can cause potassium levels in the body to decrease and when this happens, some people can experience abnormal heart rhythms.

Others, especially those over 40 with a history of heart disease and/or high blood pressure, may experience other potentially serious problems, including a rise in blood pressure, lethargy and even congestive heart failure.

“If you already have heart disease or high blood pressure, then be a little more aware of how you’re feeling if you eat this kind of licorice,” says Patton. “Stop eating it if you think you notice any type of irregular heartbeats.”

However, she notes that some foods that advertise themselves as “licorice” or “licorice flavor” use anise oil, not true black licorice. Those foods will not put you at risk for arrhythmias.

Advertisement

Also known as sweet root, licorice root has some benefits, too. It’s used primarily in a dietary supplement for bacterial and viral infections, digestive problems and menopausal symptoms. Be cautious because these supplements can raise blood pressure.

How much is too much?

So how much is too much? The FDA says if you’re 40 or older, eating multiple 2-ounce bags of black licorice a day for at least two weeks is overdoing it and could land you in the hospital with arrhythmia or an irregular heart rhythm.

The FDA also reports that black licorice can interact negatively with certain medications, dietary supplements and herbs. It’s best to talk to your doctor to find out if anything you’re taking will interact negatively with the popular candy.

Patton says that while the phenomenon is rare, if you feel funny after eating black licorice and you’ve had heart trouble in the past, don’t hesitate to call your doctor. Other symptoms can include headache, lack of energy or body swelling.

“If you have any concern, I would definitely call your doctor’s office right away and let them know,” Patton says. “If it’s really severe, then I would go to the emergency room. It’s better to be safe than sorry.”​

Advertisement

Learn more about our editorial process.

Related Articles

Older male in doctor's office with doctor holding tablet showing heart statistics
January 31, 2024/Heart Health
Extra Heartbeats: Should You Be Worried?

They’re rarely cause for concern, but you should still talk to a healthcare provider about your symptoms

Fresh fish, oil and raw vegetables on a table
August 22, 2025/Urinary & Kidney Health
What To Eat (and Avoid) When Living With IgA Nephropathy or C3G

When you have kidney disease, low-sodium and nutrient-rich foods are the dietary ‘golden rules’

Person eating a salad, with another person calculating calories in background
August 19, 2025/Weight Loss
How Many Calories Should You Eat in a Day?

It depends on factors like your age, activity level and if you want to maintain, lose or gain weight

Rows of different kinds of rice
August 18, 2025/Nutrition
Should You Be Worried About Arsenic in Rice?

Ultimately, rice is safe to eat, but the type, where it’s grown and how you cook it may be factors to consider

Many halved and pitted avocados
August 15, 2025/Nutrition
Why Avocados Are So Good for You

This glorious green superfood is full of vitamins, minerals and lots of other healthy stuff

Man sitting on couch, grimacing, with both hands on chest
August 15, 2025/Heart Health
Is That Pain in Your Chest Heartburn or a Heart Attack?

If you have other cardiac symptoms, and antacids aren’t working, it’s time to call emergency services

Bowl of fresh acai berries, with some scattered on burlap placemat
August 14, 2025/Nutrition
4 Reasons Acai Berries Are Good for You

High in antioxidants, this superfood offers many health benefits, including improving digestion and lowering cholesterol

Big wooden serving spoon filled with assorted beans and legumes
August 11, 2025/Nutrition
6 Big Benefits of Beans

This superfood fights cancer and heart disease, stabilizes blood sugar and helps with weight loss

Trending Topics

Person in bed sleeping on their side, covers off
Breathing Problems? Try These Sleep Positions

If you’re feeling short of breath, sleep can be tough — propping yourself up or sleeping on your side may help

A couple looking at skyline, with one person slightly behind the other, head bent down
What Is Anxious Attachment Style — and Do You Have It?

If you fear the unknown or find yourself needing reassurance often, you may identify with this attachment style

Glasses and bottle of yellow-colored prebiotic soda, with mint, lemon and ginger garnish
Are Prebiotic Sodas Good for You?

If you’re looking to boost your gut health, it’s better to get fiber from whole foods

Ad