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.
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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.
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.”
