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Tag: Konzo

Explore our comprehensive collection of health articles in this category.

The Dangers of Cyanide in Cassava: Understanding the Effects

4 min read
According to the World Health Organization, regular, long-term consumption of improperly processed cassava can lead to chronic cyanide exposure. This occurs because the starchy root contains naturally-occurring compounds that release toxic hydrogen cyanide when not prepared correctly, leading to serious health issues.

What are the Side Effects of Eating Cassava Porridge?

4 min read
Over 800 million people worldwide consume cassava, but if the root is not processed correctly, its toxic compounds can be dangerous. Understanding the side effects of eating cassava porridge, especially when made from inadequately prepared flour, is crucial for preventing severe health problems from cyanide exposure.

The Disadvantages of Cassava Leaves: Toxicity and Health Risks

4 min read
According to a 2019 report by the CDC, an outbreak of cyanide poisoning from improperly prepared cassava affected nearly 100 people in Uganda, demonstrating the significant disadvantages of cassava leaves when consumed without proper care. These risks are primarily due to cyanogenic compounds and other antinutrients present in the plant foliage.

Why is Cassava Unhealthy? The Dangers of Improper Preparation

4 min read
Despite being a dietary staple for millions, a 2017 outbreak in Uganda linked consumption of improperly processed cassava to cyanide poisoning, resulting in deaths. This highlights why is cassava unhealthy when not prepared correctly, a danger tied to naturally occurring cyanogenic glycosides.

What Does Cassava Do to the Brain?

4 min read
According to the Fogarty International Center at the National Institutes of Health, improperly processed cassava can cause irreversible neurological damage, including cognitive impairment and paralysis. The potential negative impact of unprocessed cassava on the brain is due to cyanogenic compounds naturally present in the root, which must be removed through proper cooking. This guide explores what cassava does to the brain, both positively and negatively, emphasizing the critical importance of safe preparation.

What is the major problem with cassava?: Unveiling the Risks of a Dietary Staple

5 min read
With more than half a billion people worldwide relying on it as a primary energy source, cassava is a vital crop in many tropical and subtropical regions. However, **what is the major problem with cassava?** It is the presence of potentially lethal cyanogenic compounds that, if not properly processed, can lead to serious health issues, including fatal cyanide poisoning.