We are what we eat. These words of wisdom have become a part of our lives.
But, did you know that some of the healthiest food items can actually be toxic, cause severe damage to the system, and even be fatal?
Scroll down to learn about 5 daily food items that are toxic and can be fatal, if not consumed in the right proportion and cooked properly.
1. Green potato
It contains a compound called Solanaceae, which is neurotoxic and very toxic for the human body. As per experts, excess consumption of this compound can cause headaches, vomiting, nausea, internal bleeding, coma, and even death. As per studies, if you eat 450 grams of fully green potato, it can cause death. (Image: istock)
2. Nutmeg
It has an active compound called Myristicine , which when broken down in the body may damage the nervous system and cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. As per studies, a 37-year-old once consumed 10 gms of nutmeg and within 1.5 hours she showed serious symptoms of toxicity. As per experts, this is the reason; nutmeg is used in very small quantities in cooking as a spice.
3. Bitter almonds
Uncooked or undercooked kidney beans contain lectin, which is a toxic substance that can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and even death. It has been proven that evenly cooked beans are lectin-free, and if the beans are undercooked, the level of lectin might increase by 5 times and may lead to severe toxicity. It is suggested to soak the beans for 2 hours before cooking.
5. Brown rice
Rice has a higher arsenic concentration, and when compared with white rice, it has been found that brown rice has a higher concentration of this toxic compound that can cause severe damage to the nervous system. It is suggested to wash the brown rice 4–8 times and also soak the rice for 30–40 minutes before cooking.
