Sources of Vitamin B17
Vitamin B17 is not actually a vitamin but a glycoside called amygdalin. It was first isolated from almond seeds in the early 19th century and is purported by some to a powerful antioxidant and cancer-fighting agent. It is also the source of the controversial cancer drug Laetrile and is contained in many common foods.
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Origins
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Vitamin B17 was first isolated in 1830 by chemists Pierre-Jean Robiquet and A.F. Boutron-Charland from the seeds of bitter almond. The glycoside was named amygdalin and was used to treat high blood pressure and to reduce pain associated with arthritis. It was dubbed Vitamin B17 by chemist Ernst Krebs in the early 20th century as part of his effort to market it as a cure for cancer.
Fruit Seeds
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The highest concentration of B17 is found in bitter almond and apricot seeds. The kernels of apricot seeds are sold in health food stores and are purported to prevent cancer, though this has never been proven. B17 is also found in lesser amounts in apple seeds and plum seeds.
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Fruits
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Many berries contain large amounts of Vitamin B17. They include blackberries, raspberries and boysenberries. And as previously mentioned, the seeds and kernels of some fruits like plums, peaches and apples contain even more B17, though the fruits themselves don't.
Nuts and grains
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Many nuts and grains contain B17. The list includes brown rice, barley, millet and millet seeds, buckwheat, alfalfa sprouts and bamboo shoots. Nuts that contain B17 include cashews, pecans and almonds.
Dangers of B17
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While many people eat foods containing B17 and take supplements in the belief it prevents cancer, there are dangers associated with too much of the substance. Since one of the active ingredients in B17 is cyanide, consuming large amounts can lead to cyanide poisoning. So if you are interested in taking B17, consult a doctor to get an idea of how much is too much.
Controversy
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Though there are many people--scientists and doctors among them--who believe that B17 and its derivative Laetrile are a cure for cancer, there is no hard evidence to prove it. A study conducted by the National Cancer Institute in 1980 with 178 cancer patients showed that none of them improved or recovered after being treated with Laetrile. But while taking small amounts of B17 may not prevent cancer, it won't do any harm.
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