There are many super healthy foods out there. However, it's important to keep in mind that more is not always better. Some foods can be good for you in moderation, but can be harmful in large amounts. Here are 4 incredibly healthy foods that can harm you if you eat too much of them.
1.Coffee
Coffee is a wonderful beverage that is loaded with antioxidants and other active compounds. It has been linked with numerous health benefits, including a reduced risk of liver diseases, type 2 diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases. The active ingredient in regular coffee is caffeine, with each cup containing an average of 80–120 mg. A daily intake of 400 mg is generally considered to be safe.
However, consuming more than 500–600 mg per day can be excessive. This may overwhelm the nervous system, causing insomnia, nervousness, irritability, stomach cramps, heart palpitations and muscle tremors.
2.Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables are a family of greens that include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage and collard greens. These veggies have been linked with many health benefits, such as a reduced risk of cancer and heart disease. However, compounds in these vegetables called thiocyanates can interfere with the body's ability to absorb iodine. This may contribute to a condition called hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism is characterized by an underactive thyroid gland. Symptoms include an enlarged thyroid gland, weight gain, constipation, dry skin and reduced energy levels. Although cruciferous vegetables like broccoli are very healthy, adding high amounts to smoothies or green juices can contribute to a massive intake of these compounds. People who are sensitive to thyroid problems should avoid consuming these veggies in very large amounts.
3.Omega-3 and Fish Oils
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for our health. They fight inflammation in the body, play an important role in brain development and reduce the risk of heart disease, to name a few. Since most diets are low in omega-3, supplements have been gaining popularity. However, too much omega-3 may be harmful. The usual dose ranges from 1–6 grams per day, but taking as much as 13–14 grams per day may have blood-thinning effects in healthy individuals. This may be risk, especially for people who are prone to bleeding or are taking blood-thinning medications.
Furthermore, taking high amounts of fish liver oil may result in excessive vitamin A intake, which may cause vitamin A toxicity. This is of particular concern for children and pregnant women.
4.Nutmeg
Nutmeg is a spice with a very unique taste. It is often used in Christmas foods like eggnog, cakes and puddings. Nutmeg contains a compound called myristicin, which is a psychoactive substance.
In lower doses, nutmeg provides flavor to meals without affecting health. But in large doses, nutmeg may cause myristicin poisoning. The effects of myristicin poisoning include seizures, heart arrhythmias, nausea, dizziness, pain and hallucinations. Eating more than 10 grams of nutmeg in one sitting is not recommended. Higher doses than that have been shown to cause symptoms of toxicity.
0 Comments