12. Apples (Seeds)
An apple a day keeps the doctor away — unless you chew and swallow the seeds. Apple seeds contain amygdalin, which breaks down into cyanide when digested. While swallowing a few seeds accidentally isn’t harmful, consuming them in large quantities can lead to cyanide poisoning.
Chewing the seeds is what releases the toxic compound. The body has mechanisms to detoxify small amounts, but large ingestion can overwhelm your system. Symptoms include dizziness, headache, confusion, and in severe cases, respiratory failure.
Children are particularly at risk, as their lower body weight means even small amounts of cyanide can be more harmful. It’s important to avoid giving them whole apples with seeds, especially if they have a habit of chewing.
While apple juice and sliced apples are safe (as seeds are usually removed), those who make smoothies or juice at home should be careful not to blend the seeds along with the fruit.
