3. Carambola: Neurotoxins
Supermarkets
Star fruit contains neurotoxins that are harmless to most people but deadly to those with kidney disease. In affected individuals, the toxin builds up and can cause seizures, confusion, and even death. Symptoms can appear within a few hours, starting with hiccups, vomiting, or weakness. If your kidneys are healthy, star fruit is completely safe to consume.
The fruit, which resembles a five-pointed yellow star, is prized for its sweet-tart flavor and high vitamin C content. WebMD explains that the fruit is rich in antioxidants, making it an excellent anti-inflammatory, and potassium, “which reduces the risk of heart attack or stroke.”
4. Cherry and apple seeds: Cyanide
Cherry and apple seeds contain amygdalin, a compound that converts to cyanide when crushed or chewed. In large quantities, it can cause dizziness, nausea, breathing problems, and even death. While the fruit itself is safe, its seeds should never be crushed or eaten. Swallowing a whole cherry seed is not harmful, but cracking it open releases toxins.
5. Poisonous side dish:
green potatoes
When exposed to light, green potatoes produce chlorophyll, which is completely harmless. However, Healthline warns that they “can also stimulate the production of certain compounds,” such as solanine, which “can be toxic to humans in large doses. However, reports of serious illness are rare.” Excessive consumption can also lead to paralysis or coma. However, green potatoes are safe if properly peeled. To avoid toxicity, discard any that show a greenish tinge or sprout.
6. Raw Cashews: Urushiol
Raw cashews contain urushiol, the same toxin found in poison ivy and poison oak. “If you were to handle or eat raw cashews, you would likely experience a reaction similar to poison ivy, such as an itchy, inflamed rash that can cause burns,” Healthline reports. However, cashews labeled raw in the supermarket have been peeled and heat-treated to remove any remaining urushiol, making them safe. Note: Mango peels also contain urushiol.
