Black licorice can be a health risk in large quantities

Most of us have a sweet tooth, and during holidays like Halloween some of us may overindulge; but to be on the safe side it may be best to limit certain treats like black licorice if you are over 40 and have high blood pressure or heart disease.

In China and around the world the candy we know as licorice has been ingested and used as a remedy for common ailments such as sore throat and heartburn. While scientific proof of its benefits are still inconclusive, the FDA has issued a warning that for those who may be at risk with the above ailments that as little as 1.8 grams per day in a period of two weeks could send a black licorice lover to the hospital with heart arrhythmia. While it is a concern, normal enjoyment of the candy will not damage nor hurt any ordinary person. Black licorice contains glycyrrhizin which can cause the human body to lower potassium levels which for someone with high blood pressure may manifest in congestive heart failure.