How Much Licorice Is Safe?

Summary

The video discusses the potential of licorice and its compound glycyrrhetinic acid to mitigate the effects of stress-induced cortisol on fat cells, potentially aiding in weight loss. However, it warns of the health risks associated with licorice consumption, such as water retention, high blood pressure, and irregular heart rhythms. It advises moderation, with the European Scientific Food Committee recommending no more than 6 grams of genuine licorice daily, and highlights the varying effects of licorice on individuals.

Takeaways

• 🌟 Licorice contains glycyrrhizin, which can block cortisol's effects on fat cells, potentially aiding in weight loss.
• 💪 Modifying diet and stress management can lower cortisol production, affecting weight and fat distribution.
• 🧪 Laboratory studies show licorice compounds can slim fat cells, but effects may not directly translate to humans.
• 🧘 Research suggests licorice may help with cellulite reduction when applied topically.
• ⚖️ Consuming licorice can lead to weight loss, but it also causes water retention, which may mask actual fat loss.
• 🔥 Excessive licorice consumption can cause body heating due to fat burning, but it also affects cortisol in kidneys differently.
• ⚠️ The FDA warns against consuming large amounts of black licorice, especially for those over 40 and with hypertension.
• 🤰 Pregnant women should avoid licorice due to links with preterm delivery and infant cognitive dysfunction.
• 🍬 European Scientific Food Committee advises a daily limit of 6 grams of genuine licorice candy for safety.
• 🍵 Licorice tea's glycyrrhizin levels vary widely, with safe daily doses ranging from a tenth to 20 cups depending on the brand.

Q & A

What are the three ways to alleviate the fattening effects of stress mentioned in the transcript?

The three ways are: 1) treating the cause by alleviating stress, 2) modifying your diet to lower cortisol production, and 3) trying to block the effects of cortisol on fat cells.

What is the role of glycyrrhetinic acid in the body?

Glycyrrhetinic acid is a compound that blocks the enzyme that activates cortisol in body fat, potentially helping to reduce the formation and growth of new fat cells.

How does licorice consumption affect fat and water retention in the body?

Licorice can cause the body to lose body fat but retain water. This leads to a decrease in fat mass but an increase in water retention, which can cause the body to regain fat and lose water once licorice consumption stops.

What are the potential health risks associated with consuming large amounts of licorice?

Consuming large amounts of licorice can lead to high blood pressure, potassium loss, weakness, abnormal heart rhythms, and in severe cases, hospitalization or coma.

Why did the FDA issue a consumer advisory warning about black licorice?

The FDA warned that eating 2 ounces of black licorice a day for at least two weeks could cause an irregular heart rhythm, especially in people aged 40 or older.

How does licorice affect pregnant women and infants?

Licorice use during pregnancy is associated with preterm delivery and infant cognitive dysfunction, so pregnant women should avoid licorice completely.

What is a safe dose of licorice for nonpregnant individuals with normal blood pressure?

The European Scientific Food Committee suggests a safe daily dose of no more than 6 grams of genuine licorice candy for regular consumption.

How does the glycyrrhizin content vary in different licorice products?

Glycyrrhizin levels can vary significantly in different licorice products, and some people may be more sensitive to its effects than others. Some licorice sold in the US may not contain true licorice and could be artificially flavored or cut with anise oil.

What is the safe daily dose of licorice tea based on the study of 33 brands?

The safe daily dose of licorice tea ranges from just a tenth of a cup to 20 cups a day, depending on the varying levels of glycyrrhizin found in different brands.

How does licorice affect testosterone levels in men?

Consuming the equivalent of 50 boxes of Good & Plenty, 9 ounces of black licorice, or a tablespoon of licorice root powder every day can cause a 44 percent drop in testosterone levels within 4 days, although blood levels return to normal within 4 days of stopping.

Why did licorice not make it into the book 'How Not to Diet'?

Licorice did not make it into the book because it was unclear whether the safe daily dose of licorice tea would be sufficient to have a fat-reducing effect, and due to the potential health risks associated with its consumption.