Vitamin B17: Unmasking the Controversial Cancer cure Myth

Dr. Suhail Qureshi, a Senior Consultant in Oncology at Fortis Shalimar Bagh, sheds light on the misnomer of "Vitamin B17."

The Health Master

September 7, 2023

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Last Updated on October 11, 2023 by The Health Master

Vitamin B17

Vitamin B17: The B complex family of vitamins is a group of essential water-soluble nutrients vital for various physiological processes in the human body.

These vitamins are commonly found in a variety of dietary sources, such as meat, eggs, dairy products, and supplements.

Within this family, there are eight distinct members:

Vitamin B1 (Thiamin),
B2 (Riboflavin),
B3 (Niacin),
B5 (Pantothenic acid),
B6 (Pyridoxine),
B7 (Biotin),
B9 (Folic acid), and
B12 (Cobalamins).

In recent years, there has been a misleading association between one specific compound, often referred to as “Vitamin B17,” and its alleged role in preventing and curing cancer.

In this article, we will debunk the myth surrounding “Vitamin B17” and examine the lack of scientific evidence supporting its use as a cancer treatment.

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The Misnomer of “Vitamin B17”

Dr. Suhail Qureshi, a Senior Consultant in Oncology at Fortis Shalimar Bagh, sheds light on the misnomer of “Vitamin B17.”

He explains that this so-called vitamin is not part of the B-complex family and is, in fact, a misidentification.

There is no molecule within this family called Vitamin B-17, and it should not be regarded as such.

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Understanding “Vitamin B17”

The substance commonly referred to as “Vitamin B17″ is more accurately known as amygdalin or laetrile.

It was first isolated from bitter almond seeds in 1830. However, the claim that amygdalin or laetrile can treat cancer remains highly controversial and is unsupported by any credible scientific evidence.

Historical Attempts and Cyanide Poisoning

Historical attempts to use amygdalin or laetrile for cancer treatment date back to the mid-19th century in Russia and the United States.

However, due to its toxicity, it was never considered a viable option. In the early 1950s, these compounds gained popularity as alternative cancer treatments, often under the misnomer “Vitamin B-17.”

Despite these efforts, numerous studies have found them to be not only clinically ineffective but potentially toxic and lethal when taken orally, leading to cyanide poisoning.

Lack of Scientific Evidence

The Cochrane Library, a reputable source of medical information, conducted a systematic review in 2015 and found no evidence to support the claimed advantages of laetrile.

Controlled clinical trials failed to demonstrate any meaningful anti-cancer effects of amygdalin or laetrile, and they have even been associated with a high risk of cyanide poisoning when ingested orally.

Cyanide Poisoning and Lack of Selectivity

Amygdalin contains a cyanide molecule, which is toxic to all cells, including healthy ones.

The belief that amygdalin can selectively target cancer cells without harming healthy cells lacks scientific support. Cyanide can affect both normal and cancerous cells, posing a serious health risk.

Alternative Cancer Treatments

Relying solely on unproven alternative treatments like amygdalin can lead patients to delay or forgo evidence-based treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and surgery, which have proven efficacy in treating cancer.

Regulatory Concerns

Due to their potential risks and lack of proven efficacy, amygdalin and laetrile have been banned or restricted in many countries, including the United States.

It is essential for individuals diagnosed with cancer to seek evidence-based treatments under the guidance of qualified medical professionals.

Consulting with medical oncologists and healthcare providers who specialize in cancer treatment is crucial for making informed decisions about treatment options.

Disclaimer: This article contains information derived from the source mentioned below. Our team utilized an AI language model to rewrite and present the news or article in a unique format.