Vitamin B17

Vitamin B17, also known as amygdalin or laetrile, is not officially recognized as a vitamin by mainstream nutritional science. The term "Vitamin B17" was popularized by Ernst T. Krebs Jr., who proposed that it had anti-cancer properties. However, this claim is not supported by scientific evidence, and the use of amygdalin as a cancer treatment is considered controversial and potentially dangerous.

Amygdalin is a compound found in certain seeds and pits of fruits, such as apricots, peaches, and almonds. It can also be extracted from the kernels of these fruits. In the 1950s and 1960s, there was significant public interest in amygdalin as a potential cancer treatment, leading to the promotion of laetrile as a cancer therapy.

Despite its popularity, scientific studies have failed to demonstrate any significant anti-cancer effects of amygdalin. In fact, the substance can break down into cyanide in the body, which is toxic and can lead to serious health risks. The use of laetrile as a cancer treatment has been widely discredited, and its sale as a therapeutic agent is illegal in many countries.

It's essential to note that promoting substances like amygdalin as a vitamin or cancer treatment without scientific support can be misleading and pose significant health risks.