In general, we know which foods are healthy enough to be eaten daily and which must be eaten on an occasional basis. However, we do not know exactly what foods we should avoid so as not to affect our health and well-being.
Whether vegetables, fruits, fish or nuts, some ingredients used in many parts of the world can be harmful or even toxic if ingested in large quantities. Although we consume them regularly, we must nevertheless take certain precautions before proceeding to their preparation and consumption.
Potato
Whether in salads or in gratins, there are many ways to prepare potatoes. It is an inexpensive and nutritious vegetable that suits both young and old alike.
To keep them clean, it is recommended to clean them from their soil and store them in a dry place and away from heat.
If they are not well preserved, germs appear on their skin. These germs contain glyco-alkaloids, toxic compounds, whose high consumption can have binding effects. A burning sensation in the mouth, nausea, vomiting, cramps and diarrhea. Some neurological effects such as tremors, confusion and perturbations of vision may also occur in more severe cases of poisoning.
Beyond the germs, they can also turn green if they are exposed to light. This green hue is caused by solanine which is a toxic substance. In this case, it is essential to remove all the green parts before cooking because the solanine is resistant to heat.
You can continue to consume the potatoes without any worry, provided they are neither germinated nor green.
The Nutmeg
Regularly used in the kitchen, either ground or grated, its powerful and pleasant perfume enhances the taste of many dishes, sauces, pastries and desserts.
Western Hindus and Indonesians used it as tobacco, this practice was perpetuated in American prisons.
Today, it is considered the fashionable drug consumed by American teenagers who confirm its binding side effects of the type migraines, nausea, dizziness and dehydration.
An overdose will have an euphoric but dangerous effect on the nervous system which can then turn into lethargy.
You can continue to use this spice as long as you consume it in moderation and dose it very lightly.
The almonds
Almonds are known for their intake of nutrients, protein, fat and magnesium. However, in high doses their benefits can turn into undesirable effects.
People with digestive system disorders should consume it in moderation.
In addition, since the kernel is rich in vitamin E, an overdose of this vitamin can cause flatulence, blurred vision, dizziness and even lethargy.
Also beware of bitter almonds that have a high content of hydrocyanic acid that tends to slow down the nervous system and breathing.
A handful of almonds will do you no harm, however if you abuse it can cause some inconvenience.
The Rhubarb
Rhubarb is a plant often used and appreciated in the making of jams and pies. Make sure to eat only the stems because the leaves can be toxic especially for the kidneys.
The poison contained in the leaves comes from their high content of oxalate which is a toxic acid causing burns of the digestive tract responsible for abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. Significant ingestion leads to the development of kidney stones and may cause acute renal failure.
It is therefore recommended to consume only the stems after having thoroughly cleaned and rinsed them, and to leave out the leaves.
Canned tuna
Canned tuna is present in all kitchen cupboards because it is an inexpensive and easy to use food. Whether in salads, sandwiches, or pizza topping canned tuna consumption is a regular practice in the four corners of the world.
However, studies have shown that it is necessary to reduce or even limit the consumption to one box per week because the tuna contains more and more mercury. Exposure to this heavy metal that easily crosses human tissue can cause serious disorders in the immune system and the nervous system, infections and even cancers.