BLACK LICORICE IN LARGE QUANTITIES IS BAD FOR YOU

The Food and Drug Administration is now warning us to stop eating large amounts of black licorice. The candy, made from a shrub usually found in Greece, Turkey and Asia, contains a compound called glycyrrhizin…. gleezeribbon… glazerflaven…. uh, a compound that can lower your potassium levels. So, eating too much black licorice could cause heart problems, high blood pressure, swelling and sluggishness. People age 40 and over who eat two ounces of black licorice a day for at least two weeks could experience irregular heart rhythms. Last year, the FDA heard of at least one case of black licorice causing health problems. They advise anyone who has an irregular heart rhythm or muscle weakness to stop eating the candy immediately. Pregnant women should also avoid eating black licorice.
* I haven’t eaten black licorice in years, but now, thanks to this story, I’m suddenly intrigued.
* You could experience heart problems, high blood pressure, swelling and sluggishness, and also that ugly black licorice tongue.
* What I’m hearing is, eat all the candy you want this morning except the Good ‘n’ Plenties.
* Can I eat the black Chuckles? Get me the FDA on the phone.
* Coming soon: Black licorice with extra potassium.