Even small dose of Liquorice can elevate blood pressure, finds study
According to a study conducted by researchers at Linköping University, Sweden, consuming even small quantities of liquorice can lead to an increase in blood pressure. Those who react most strongly also display indications of cardiac strain.
The study was published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
Liquorice is produced from the root of plants of the Glycyrrhiza species and has long been used as a herbal remedy and flavouring. However, it is known that eating liquorice can also raise blood pressure. This is mainly due to a substance called glycyrrhizic acid that affects the body's fluid balance through effects on an enzyme in the kidney. High blood pressure, in turn, increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Both the European Union and the World Health Organization have concluded that 100 mg of glycyrrhizic acid per day may be safe to eat for most individuals.
In the study, 28 participants aged 18-30 were split into two groups. They were instructed to alternate between consuming liquorice and a control product containing salmiak, which gives salty liquorice its flavour. Participants were randomly assigned to eat either liquorice or the control product for two weeks, take a break for two weeks, and then eat the other variety for two weeks. Participants monitored their blood pressure daily, and at the end of each period, researchers evaluated hormone levels, salt balance, and heart workload to compare the effects of both substances.
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