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how does potassium benzoate affect the body

by Brandt Gorczany Published 4 years ago Updated 4 years ago

While potassium benzoate

Potassium benzoate

Potassium benzoate, the potassium salt of benzoic acid, is a food preservative that inhibits the growth of mold, yeast and some bacteria. It works best in low-pH products, below 4.5, where it exists as benzoic acid.

(not to be confused with sodium benzoate) is generally recognized as safe and approved for use in foods in many countries for its ability to prevent mold, it also has some of the worst health effects. These effects can include hyperactivity, dizziness, insomnia, DNA damage, oh and it is potentially carcinogenic.

While this compound is approved for use in many countries, it has come under scrutiny for its possible side effects. These range from severe allergic reactions to hyperactivity to an increased risk of cancer.Sep 22, 2020

Full Answer

What are the side effects of potassium benzoate?

These range from severe allergic reactions to hyperactivity to an increased risk of cancer. Yet, you may wonder whether these side effects are backed by research. This article reviews potassium benzoate, which foods contain it, and its possible side effects. What is potassium benzoate, and how is it used?

How does potassium benzoate work in food?

Potassium benzoate is classified as a food preservative. It can work in one of two ways according to PubChem, a division of The National Center for Biotechnology Information. The first is as a food preservative, which means it inhibits or stops the process of fermentation, acidification, or any deterioration of a specific food.

What happens when potassium benzoate is combined with vitamin C?

When combined with vitamin C, potassium benzoate can form benzene, a known carcinogen. Vitamin C is a necessary part of our diet and is found in many fruit and vegetables. Because of the presence of this preservative in salad dressings, sodas, and fruit juice, it is almost inevitable that this combination will occur in most people’s...

What factors affect the formation of benzene in potassium-benzoate?

Other factors that can affect the rate at which benzene is formed in potassium-benzoate-containing-foods include heat, light and shelf life. This formation of benzene that occurs from potassium benzoate and ascorbic acid is the most important to note.

What does benzoate do to the body?

Studies suggest that sodium benzoate may increase your risk of inflammation, oxidative stress, obesity, ADHD, and allergies. It may also convert to benzene, a potential carcinogen, but the low levels found in beverages are deemed safe.

Does benzoate have side effects?

Drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, stomach upset, constipation, and stuffy nose may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

How does potassium benzoate work?

Potassium benzoate, the potassium salt of benzoic acid, is used as a preservative to prevent food spoilage by inhibiting the growth of mold, yeast and some bacteria.

Why is potassium benzoate in Coke?

Sodium or potassium benzoate may be added to beverages to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and molds.

What are pearls for coughing?

What is Tessalon Perles? Tessalon Perles is used to relieve coughing. Tessalon Perles is a non-narcotic cough medicine that numbs the throat and lungs, making the cough reflex less active.

Which drugs cause coughing as a side effect?

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are a class of prescription blood pressure medications that commonly cause coughing as a side effect....Official answerLotensin (benazepril)Vasotec (enalapril)Prinivil (lisinopril)Accupril (quinapril)Altace (ramipril)Trandolapril.Captopril.Moexipril.More items...•

Is potassium benzoate a source of potassium?

Potassium benzoate (E212), the potassium salt of benzoic acid, is a food preservative that inhibits the growth of mold, yeast and some bacteria. It works best in low-pH products, below 4.5, where it exists as benzoic acid....Potassium benzoate.NamesChEMBLChEMBL2105241ChemSpider10921ECHA InfoCard100.008.621EC Number209-481-332 more rows

Is sodium benzoate and potassium benzoate the same thing?

Potassium benzoate is used in carbonated drinks, such as waters and sodas, diet and regular. Sodium benzoate is more widely used than potassium benzoate. However, when sodium content needs to be reduced, potassium benzoate is usually the substitute.

What foods contain Benzoates?

Other foods that commonly include sodium benzoate include:Salad dressings.Pickles.Sauces.Condiments.Fruit juices.Wines.Snack foods.

Is potassium benzoate harmful?

Potassium benzoate is a preservative used to increase the shelf life of various packaged foods, as well as beauty and skin care products. It's generally considered safe when ingested in small amounts, although some people may experience an allergic reaction.

What is another name for potassium benzoate?

Potassium benzoatePubChem CID23661960StructureFind Similar StructuresChemical SafetyLaboratory Chemical Safety Summary (LCSS) DatasheetMolecular FormulaC7H5KO2SynonymsPOTASSIUM BENZOATE 582-25-2 Benzoic acid, potassium salt potassium;benzoate UNII-763YQN2K7K More...5 more rows

Is benzoate a carcinogen?

Carcinogenic Effect Sodium benzoate is not known to be carcinogenic on its own. However, there have been concerns by the FDA that when both vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and sodium benzoate are mixed, they form benzene, a known human carcinogen. Benzene is also formed when potassium benzoate is combined with vitamin C.

Is sodium benzoate harmful for skin?

Sodium benzoate is not a toxin or carcinogen on its own, and large amounts of it would have to be consumed, not applied topically, for any adverse effects to be seen.

Is benzyl benzoate toxic?

For benzyl alcohol benzyl benzoate (BABB) preparation, ensure all solutions are handled in glass beakers with compatible lids. BABB is toxic, avoid inhalation and contact with skin and eyes.

What foods contain Benzoates?

Common foods that contain benzoates include: fruit such as apples, grapefruit, navel oranges, papaya, all stone fruit (apricots, cherries, peaches, nectarines, plums, prunes), all berries (blackberries, blueberries, cranberries, raspberries, strawberries) any juice, jam, jelly or dried fruit made from the above.

Is benzoic acid bad for you?

► Exposure to Benzoic Acid in high concentrations, particularly in susceptible individuals, may cause a skin allergy. If allergy develops, very low future exposure can cause itching and a skin rash.

What is the percentage of benzoate salts in food?

Research published in Frontiers in Microbiology indicate that benzoate salts are added to food products, beverages, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals with ranges of 0.03 to 0.3 percent . Potassium benzoate is used in carbonated drinks, such as waters and sodas, diet and regular. Sodium benzoate is more widely used than potassium benzoate.

How much potassium is in iced tea?

The Indian Health Service suggests that a 12 ounce can of diet soda can contribute 28 mg from potassium benzoate and a 16 ounce bottle of iced tea will add 60 mg of potassium from potassium benzoate and potassium sorbate.

Is benzoate salt a carcinogen?

According to the FDA, foods and drinks containing benzoate salts and vitamin C that were exposed to heat and light were forming unusually high amounts of benzene. Benzene is a known carcinogen , which means it causes cancer.

Is benzoate salt a preservative?

One of the biggest concerns in the past regarding benzoate salts was in the potential for benzene in food and beverages. Often, when benzoate salts, such as potassium and sodium benzoate are added to foods, vitamin C is also added as a preservative. According to the FDA, foods and drinks containing benzoate salts and vitamin C ...

Is benzoic acid a fungus?

PubChem indicates that benzoic acid is a naturally occurring fungistatic in most berries, with cranberries containing a larger amount of natural benzoic acid. Research published in Frontiers in Microbiology indicate that benzoate salts are added to food products, beverages, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals with ranges of 0.03 to 0.3 percent.

Can you have a reaction to potassium benzoate?

If you experience any type of reaction after consuming a food with potassium benzoate listed in the ingredients list, it's possible you have an allergy or intolerance. Stop consuming that particular food and make an appointment with your primary healthcare provider to discuss your adverse reaction and possible causes.

Is benzene bad for you?

They state that the current minimal amount of benzene in beverages does not pose a public health risk . Advertisement. The National Kidney Foundation indicates those with chronic kidney disease may not be able to maintain a proper level of potassium in the blood.

What factors affect the rate at which benzene is formed in potassium-benzoate-containing foods?

Other factors that can affect the rate at which benzene is formed in potassium-benzoate-containing-foods include heat, light and shelf life. This formation of benzene that occurs from potassium benzoate and ascorbic acid is the most important to note.

Is it bad to eat something in a blue moon?

While consuming/doing something unhealthy once in a blue moon shouldn't hurt, we definitely recommend eliminating 'D' items as a regular part of your routine/diet. Category 'F' is for things that fail to bring anything beneficial to the table, and are very harmful to your health.

Does benzene affect the immune system?

The blood cell changes also affect white blood cell loss and decrease antibodies, which together means a less active and stable immune system . As an extra tidbit of information, you get further exposure to benzene from tobacco smoke, gasoline fumes, glue, paint, furniture waxes, and detergent.

Is B+ bad for you?

So, although something may be rated an 'A+', overconsumption/overdoing can bring unwanted effects. Category 'B'. B+. Very beneficial to your health.

Is potassium benzoate safe?

While potassium benzoate (not to be confused with sodium benzoate) is generally recognized as safe and approved for use in foods in many countries for its ability to prevent mold, it also has some of the worst health effects. These effects can include hyperactivity, dizziness, insomnia, DNA damage, oh and it is potentially carcinogenic.

What Is Potassium Benzoate E212?

Potassium Benzoate E212 is a food preservative that inhibits the growth of mold, yeast and some bacteria. It works best in low-pH products. It is used in acidic foods such as fruit juice (citric acid), sparkling drinks (carbonic acid), soft drinks (Phosphoric Acid), and pickles (vinegar)

Possible Side Effects of Potassium Benzoate E212

Though Potassium Benzoate E212 is regarded as safe supplement, there maybe some side effects:

GRAS Affirmation: Yes

Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) is an American Food and Drug Administration (FDA) designation that a chemical or substance added to food is considered safe by experts, and so is exempted from the usual Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) food additive tolerance requirements. Potassium Benzoate E212 is considered safe.

Special Populations Precaution

There is a lot of concern about diet and nutrition for these population, like Newborns, children, pregnant, sensitive to Potassium Benzoate E212 populations. Better consult to your doctor if you would like to intake Potassium Benzoate E212.

Why is potassium important?

The Bottom Line. Potassium is one of the most important minerals in the body. It helps regulate fluid balance, muscle contractions and nerve signals. What’s more, a high-potassium diet may help reduce blood pressure and water retention, protect against stroke and prevent osteoporosis and kidney stones.

What happens when an electrolyte dissolves in water?

When in water, an electrolyte dissolves into positive or negative ions that have the ability to conduct electricity. Potassium ions carry a positive charge. Your body uses this electricity to manage a variety of processes, including fluid balance, nerve signals and muscle contractions ( 7, 8 ). Therefore, a low or high amount ...

What is the fluid that is affected by the concentration of electrolytes?

This fluid is called extracellular fluid (ECF). Interestingly, the amount of water in the ICF and ECF is affected by their concentration of electrolytes, especially potassium and sodium. Potassium is the main electrolyte in the ICF, and it determines the amount of water inside the cells.

What is potassium in the body?

Summary: Potassium is an important mineral that functions as an electrolyte. It helps regulate fluid balance, nerve signals and muscle contractions.

Why is potassium considered an electrolyte?

The importance of potassium is highly underestimated. This mineral is classified as an electrolyte because it’s highly reactive in water. When dissolved in water, it produces positively charged ions. This special property allows it to conduct electricity, which is important for many processes throughout the body.

Why is potassium important for the nervous system?

Potassium Is Important for the Nervous System. The nervous system relays messages between your brain and body. These messages are deliver ed in the form of nerv e impulses and help regulate your muscle contractions, heartbeat, reflexes and many other body functions ( 12. Trusted Source.

Why is fluid balance important?

Maintaining good fluid balance is important for optimal health. Poor fluid balance can lead to dehydration, which in turn affects the heart and kidneys ( 11 ). Eating a potassium-rich diet and staying hydrated can help maintain good fluid balance.

What is the most common type of kidney stone?

However, more research on both dietary and supplemental potassium is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn. Kidney stones. Kidney stones are most common in people aged 40 to 60 [ 52 ]. Stones containing calcium—in the form of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate—are the most common type of kidney stone.

How much potassium is absorbed by humans?

A 2016 dose-response trial found that humans absorb about 94% of potassium gluconate in supplements, and this absorption rate is similar to that of potassium from potatoes [ 24 ].

How much potassium does the body absorb?

It is estimated that the body absorbs about 85%–90% of dietary potassium [ 1, 2 ]. The forms of potassium in fruits and vegetables include potassium phosphate, sulfate, citrate, and others, but not potassium chloride (the form used in salt substitutes and some dietary supplements; see supplements section below) [ 16 ].

What is the best source of potassium?

Milk, coffee, tea, other nonalcoholic beverages, and potatoes are the top sources of potassium in the diets of U.S. adults [ 14 ]. Among children in the United States, milk, fruit juice, potatoes , and fruit are the top sources [ 15 ]. It is estimated that the body absorbs about 85%–90% of dietary potassium [ 1, 2 ].

What are the foods that are considered a protein?

Includes a variety of protein foods such as lean meats; poultry; eggs; seafood; beans, peas, and lentils; nuts and seeds; and soy products. Seafood, lean meats, poultry, legumes, nuts, seeds, and soybeans contain potassium. Limits foods and beverages higher in added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium.

Does potassium affect blood glucose?

Because of potassium’s wide-ranging roles in the body, low intakes can increase the risk of illness. This section focuses on four diseases and disorders in which potassium might be involved: hypertension and stroke; kidney stones; bone health; and blood glucose control and type 2 diabetes.

Can potassium deficiency cause hypokalemia?

Severe potassium deficiency can cause hypokalemia, (serum potassium level less than about 3.6 mmol/L) [ 3, 7, 8 ]. Hypokalemia affects up to 21% of hospitalized patients, usually because of the use of diuretics and other medications [ 29, 30 ], but it is rare among healthy people with normal kidney function.

Why does potassium make muscles work harder?

Your muscles need the right balance of potassium inside their cells and sodium outside of them. When that balance gets out of whack, it makes it harder for your muscles to work. Potassium is involved in the electrical signals sent by muscles. It lets them contract properly.

Why is potassium important for the nervous system?

Here again, potassium is key in your inner electrical system. It helps your nerves fire properly when stimulated. This happens by way of electrical signals that go from cell to cell. As part of the nervous system, your brain needs potassium. The mineral helps brain cells communicate with each other and with cells farther away in your body.

What does potassium do to your body?

What Potassium Does for Your Body. If you have high blood pressure, blood pushes too hard against the walls of your veins and arteries. Over time, this can make you more likely to have a stroke or to develop heart disease or heart failure. High blood pressure is often called “the silent killer” because it rarely causes symptoms ...

Why is high blood pressure called the silent killer?

High blood pressure is often called “the silent killer” because it rarely causes symptoms and many people don’t know they have it. Too much sodium can be part of the problem. But potassium can help you get rid of sodium and ease tension in your blood vessels’ walls. The result: better blood pressure.

What happens if you are low on potassium?

If you’re low on potassium, you can get muscle weakness and cramps. Your most important muscle, your heart, needs potassium. It helps cells send the right electrical signals so that the heart pumps correctly.

Can you take potassium if you are low?

If you’re low on potassium, foods are a great, natural source. Your doctor may recommend that you supplement with potassium, at least temporarily and possibly permanently, if the reason you’re low on potassium is that you need to keep taking certain medication s.

Can ACE inhibitors cause hyperkalemia?

Not being able to make enough of some hormones can also cause hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia doesn’ t always cause symptoms, or it might make your muscles feel weak.

Does sodium benzoate go away?

Some side effects of sodium benzoate / sodium phenylacetate may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Does sodium benzoate cause side effects?

Side effects requiring immediate medical attention. Along with its needed effects, sodium benzoate / sodium phenylacetate may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention. Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur ...

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