“Food Safety Guide” Series | The “magic” and harm of betel nut: Do you really understand it?

Imagine a friend takes out a betel nut and invites you to chew it. You may hesitate because you have heard of the various "bad reputations" of betel nut, but at the same time you are full of curiosity about it. Let's walk into the "magical world" of betel nut, take you to understand the "magic" and harm of betel nut, and help you make a wise choice.

1. The “magic” of betel nut

Betel nut is a fruit of a tropical plant, and its shape, taste and mouthfeel are similar to those of chewing gum. It contains a variety of chemical components, such as alkaloids, tannins and various trace elements. These components are beneficial to the human body at a certain dose, such as anti-oxidation and anti-inflammatory, but excessive intake may have a negative impact on the human body. After being absorbed through the cheek mucosa, the arecoline in betel nut can take effect in a short time, making the nerves more excited. People will become very dependent on the stimulating feeling brought by betel nut, and once addicted, it is difficult to quit.

2. The harm of betel nut

1. Cause oral health problems

Long-term betel nut chewing may lead to submucosal fibrosis in the oral cavity, causing atrophy of the internal oral tissues and increasing the risk of oral cancer. The alkaloids in betel nut can irritate the oral mucosa, causing inflammation and ulcers. These oral health problems not only affect the quality of life, but if they worsen, they may also cause symptoms such as inability to eat irritating foods, increased pain in the mouth, limited opening of the mouth, and slurred speech. Many people develop oral cancer due to betel nut chewing, and if necessary, part of the face must be removed, which may lead to death in severe cases.

2. Cause gastrointestinal problems

The alkaloids in betel nut can irritate the gastric mucosa, causing stomach discomfort, indigestion and other problems. Long-term chewing of betel nut may increase the risk of chronic gastritis, gastric ulcers and even gastric cancer.

3. Cause cardiovascular system problems

The active ingredients in betel nut can accelerate heartbeat, raise blood pressure, and increase the burden on the heart. Long-term chewing of betel nut may cause arrhythmia, myocardial ischemia, and other problems, and in severe cases may lead to heart failure. Although this effect may not be obvious in the short term, it may become a potential health "killer" if it accumulates over a long period of time.

3. How to make a wise choice when facing betel nut

How should we choose between the "magic" and harm of betel nut? In fact, this does not require a black-and-white choice. Betel nut is not completely useless. It can be used as a medicinal material to treat some diseases. However, as ordinary people, we should be aware of its potential harm and try to avoid long-term and excessive consumption. If you have developed the habit of chewing betel nut, you can try to gradually reduce the frequency and quantity until you finally quit.

Author: Kong Fanjing and Hu Mengdie, Special Medical Department, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences

This article was scientifically reviewed by Xin Xiaowei, nutritionist and deputy director of the Nutrition Department of the Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences.