Dutch Licorice: More Than Just a Candy
Dutch licorice, known locally as 'drop', is distinct from many North American versions. While American licorice is often flavored with anise oil, Dutch drop is made with real licorice root extract (from Glycyrrhiza glabra), which contains a potent compound called glycyrrhizin. It is this ingredient that gives Dutch licorice its intense flavor profile—from subtly sweet (zoete drop) to extremely salty (dubbel zoute drop). Glycyrrhizin is responsible for both the unique taste and the primary health concerns associated with the treat.
The Double-Edged Sword of Glycyrrhizin
Glycyrrhizin is an extremely sweet compound, up to 50 times sweeter than sucrose. When consumed in large amounts over time, the body converts it into glycyrrhetinic acid, which inhibits an enzyme that regulates cortisol. This hormonal disruption can lead to a condition known as pseudohyperaldosteronism, mimicking the effects of excess aldosterone production in the body.
The consequences of this hormonal imbalance are significant and potentially dangerous. The condition causes the body to retain sodium and excrete potassium, which in turn leads to a range of cardiovascular problems.
Documented Health Risks of Excessive Consumption
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): The sodium and water retention caused by glycyrrhetinic acid can cause a significant increase in blood pressure. This poses a serious risk, especially for individuals over 40 and those with pre-existing heart or kidney conditions.
- Low Potassium Levels (Hypokalemia): As the body expels potassium, levels in the blood can drop to dangerously low levels. Symptoms of hypokalemia can include muscle weakness, fatigue, and cramping.
- Irregular Heart Rhythm (Arrhythmia): The electrolyte imbalance caused by low potassium can disrupt the heart's rhythm, which, in severe cases, can lead to palpitations, ventricular fibrillation, and even cardiac arrest.
- Edema (Swelling): Excess sodium and water retention can lead to puffiness and swelling in the hands, ankles, and face.
- Congestive Heart Failure: In vulnerable individuals, the combination of high blood pressure and fluid retention can worsen or trigger congestive heart failure.
Dutch Licorice versus North American Licorice
To understand the specific risks, it is helpful to compare Dutch licorice to the type more common in the United States and Canada.
| Feature | Dutch Black Licorice ('Drop') | North American Black Licorice |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Flavoring | Real licorice root extract | Anise oil |
| Glycyrrhizin Content | High; responsible for health risks | None |
| Flavor Profile | Ranges from very sweet to intensely salty (using ammonium chloride) | Generally sweeter with a milder flavor |
| Health Risks (Excessive) | High blood pressure, hypokalemia, arrhythmia | Less severe; relates to high sugar intake and artificial ingredients |
| Regulation | Varies; Dutch licorice has higher allowable glycyrrhizin content | Manufacturers often use anise, avoiding glycyrrhizin issues |
Moderation and Precautions
For a healthy adult without pre-existing conditions, enjoying Dutch black licorice in moderation is generally considered safe. The World Health Organization (WHO) has suggested a safe daily intake of up to 100 mg of glycyrrhizic acid, equivalent to roughly 60–70 grams of licorice, though this can vary depending on the product. However, the glycyrrhizin content can fluctuate significantly between products, making it difficult to track intake accurately. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that consuming just 2 ounces (approx. 57 grams) of authentic black licorice per day for two weeks could cause health issues for people over 40.
Due to these risks, certain groups should avoid black licorice containing glycyrrhizin entirely:
- Individuals with heart, kidney, or blood pressure conditions.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women.
- Anyone taking medication that could interact with licorice, such as diuretics or corticosteroids.
The Faint Glimmer of Licorice Root Benefits
It is important to differentiate between licorice candy and pure licorice root extract, which has been used medicinally for thousands of years. Some studies suggest potential benefits of the root, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. It has been explored for easing respiratory conditions and digestive issues like peptic ulcers. However, these benefits apply to concentrated extracts, not the sugary candy, and require further human research. For those interested in the potential benefits without the risk of glycyrrhizin, deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) products are available.
Conclusion
While a cherished treat in the Netherlands, Dutch black licorice is not a health food and should be consumed with caution due to its high glycyrrhizin content. For the average healthy adult, occasional indulgence is likely harmless, but excessive or regular intake can lead to serious cardiovascular complications. The potent salty varieties pose an even greater risk for those sensitive to blood pressure changes. It's vital to be aware of the genuine risks, especially for those with underlying health issues, and to opt for anise-flavored alternatives or deglycyrrhizinated products if concerned. Always consult a healthcare provider with any questions about diet and health. A more detailed explanation of glycyrrhizin's effects can be found on this government health resource: Licorice Root: Usefulness and Safety | NCCIH.
Potential Health Effects of Licorice Candy
- Hypertension: Excessive glycyrrhizin can raise blood pressure, a significant concern for those over 40 and individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
- Hypokalemia: Long-term, high-dose licorice intake can cause dangerously low potassium levels in the blood, leading to muscle issues and heart problems.
- Arrhythmia: Low potassium can disrupt the heart's electrical rhythm, potentially causing irregular heartbeats that could lead to cardiac arrest.
- Fluid Retention: The hormonal effects of glycyrrhizin can cause the body to retain sodium and water, resulting in swelling or edema.
- Drug Interactions: Black licorice can interact with certain medications, including diuretics, corticosteroids, and blood thinners, making them less effective or increasing side effects.
Health Effects of Licorice Candy
- Hypertension: Excessive glycyrrhizin can raise blood pressure, a significant concern for those over 40 and individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
- Hypokalemia: Long-term, high-dose licorice intake can cause dangerously low potassium levels in the blood, leading to muscle issues and heart problems.
- Arrhythmia: Low potassium can disrupt the heart's electrical rhythm, potentially causing irregular heartbeats that could lead to cardiac arrest.
- Fluid Retention: The hormonal effects of glycyrrhizin can cause the body to retain sodium and water, resulting in swelling or edema.
- Drug Interactions: Black licorice can interact with certain medications, including diuretics, corticosteroids, and blood thinners, making them less effective or increasing side effects.
What is Glycyrrhizin?
Glycyrrhizin is the main active compound in licorice root, which gives black licorice candy its sweet taste and is responsible for its potential health risks.
What is the primary difference between Dutch and American black licorice?
Dutch black licorice is made with real licorice root extract, containing glycyrrhizin, while most North American versions are flavored with anise oil, which does not contain glycyrrhizin.
Is it safe to eat Dutch black licorice in moderation?
For healthy adults, moderate consumption is generally considered safe. However, the definition of 'moderate' can vary, and individuals with underlying health conditions should be particularly cautious or avoid it altogether.
Who should avoid eating Dutch black licorice?
Individuals with high blood pressure, heart or kidney disease, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and people taking certain medications should avoid licorice with glycyrrhizin.
Can licorice cause problems for people who don't have health issues?
Yes, excessive or consistent consumption, even in healthy individuals, can still lead to high blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, and other issues over time.
Are there any health benefits to eating licorice?
Some compounds in licorice root have shown potential anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits in studies, but these apply to the root extract itself, not the sugary candy, and are often outweighed by the risks of glycyrrhizin.
