In Russia, they want to ban the sale of "intoxicating" nuts. What you need to know

In Russia, they want to ban the sale of betel nut, which has psychoactive properties, on online platforms. Parents have been complaining for a long time that their children order these nuts online. After using it, seizures, headache and hallucinations are possible due to toxic components. What you need to know about this product is in the Izvestia article.

Why do they want to limit

• The State Duma wants to ban the free sale of betel nuts with psychoactive effects on marketplaces. Recently, there have been more frequent appeals from parents whose children purchase so-called "drunk" nuts on the Internet, which cause hallucinations and other dangerous reactions. Such products contain toxic substances that have a strong effect on the body.

• The Parliament also proposed instructing the competent authorities to inspect nuts and consider the possibility of including them in the list of substances prohibited for free sale. The State Duma believes that it is necessary to allow access to trading platforms only for certified and licensed goods under the control of the Russian authorities.

Why is there such a stir?

• Young people became interested in betel nut after videos appeared on the Internet where this product is presented as a safe means for relaxation or stimulation. However, most users are not aware of its dangerous properties. Betel contains psychoactive substances that are addictive and have toxic effects on the body. In countries where it is used traditionally, serious consequences have long been noted — cancer of the oral cavity, lesions of the esophagus, stomach and teeth.

Both feast and fat: which foods kill the heart and liver

Doctors explained what you should eat to avoid getting old before your time

What is the danger of nuts?

• Betel nut is known in Asian countries as a psychostimulant, which locals chew for cheerfulness. However, it is dangerous because it contains psychoactive substances that affect the nervous system and are addictive. When chewing it, a person feels a short-term surge of energy, cheerfulness and improved mood. Along with this, harmful changes occur in the body.

• The constant consumption of nuts leads to addiction similar to nicotine or alcohol, and over time, without it, it becomes difficult for a person to maintain activity and concentration. On a physiological level, betel destroys tooth enamel, causes inflammation of the oral mucosa, turns teeth reddish-brown and can cause tooth loss.

• In addition, medical studies confirm its carcinogenic properties — regular use increases the risk of developing cancer of the oral cavity, esophagus and stomach. Also, with prolonged use, disorders of the cardiovascular system, high blood pressure, digestive problems and sleep disorders are observed.

• For teenagers, the danger is especially great because the immature nervous system reacts more strongly. For example, insomnia, irritability, anxiety, hallucinations, and psychosis may occur in overdose.

Sweetness is not a joy: which foods contain hidden sugar

Experts told how energy drinks, yoghurts, smoothies and canned food undermine health.

• The expert community believes that it is necessary not only to restrict the free sale of betel nuts, but also to bring to justice those who distribute it to minors through social networks. After all, the use of this product can cause a real addiction that requires subsequent treatment.

• Marketplaces have announced plans to check for the presence of psychoactive nuts on their site. Meanwhile, China and Taiwan have already introduced strict measures to limit the advertising and sale of betel, as its use is associated with an increase in cases of oral cancer.

When writing the material, Izvestia interviewed:

• narcologist, psychotherapist, member of the National Narcological League Vasily Shurov.