Cassava Interactions Overview

Check For Interactions With Cassava

Cassava

Also known as
  • Manihot esculenta
  • Brazilian Arrowroot
  • Cassave
  • Kassava
  • Kassave
  • Mandioca
  • Manioc
  • Manioc Tapioca
  • Manioca
  • Maniok
  • Maniokki
  • Tapioca
  • Tapioca Plant
  • Yuca
Cassava Cassava, also known as yuca, is a starchy root vegetable and a dietary mainstay in numerous tropical and developing nations. Despite its nutritional significance, cassava is not without concern, as it contains potentially harmful cyanogenic glycosides. Ongoing research is directed towards the development of genetically modified variants with reduced toxicity, aiming to mitigate health-related concers associated with its consumption. In addition to its role as a dietary staple, cassava supplements are sometimes marketed as a fertility aid, specifically highlighting an increased probability of conceiving twins. This claim is grounded in the notion that select cassava supplements can induce hyper-ovulation without the adverse effects commonly associated with prescription fertility medications. It is pertinent to note, however, that this assertion currently lacks any substantiation in studies. Beyond its purported use for fertility, available evidence suggests a potential reduction in the risk of developing type 2 diabetes with an increased intake of cassava flour in the diet.
There are 16 drugs known to interact with Cassava

Additional Details

Is Cassava Safe? Are There Any Warnings?

Cassava is generally safe when consumed in processed food amounts that have removed cyanogenic glycosides. However, caution is advised if not processed appropriately, especially for children and pregnant women. Unprocessed cassava may lead to cyanide poisoning and pose risks like konzo, a paralytic disease.

How Does Cassava Work? What is the Mechanism of Action?

Cassava, a starchy root vegetable, contains cyanogenic glycosides like linamarin and lotaustralin. When consumed, these compounds are metabolized by linamarase, a natural enzyme in cassava, releasing hydrogen cyanide. The bitter variety has higher cyanogenic content than the sweet. Processing methods like boiling or grating help remove cyanide. Cassava is being researched for potential transgenic modifications to reduce cyanogenic content.

Observational research suggests a correlation between increased cassava flour consumption and a modest reduction in the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The mechanism by which cassava may lower diabetes risk remains unclear, and it doesn't seem to be linked to any influence on glycemic response.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Cassava has a high glycemic index, indicating rapid glucose release during digestion. Beta-carotene in cassava is bioaccessible ranging from 30% to 70%.

Distribution: Evidence suggests variable bioaccessibility of beta-carotene in different cassava cultivars after digestion.

Metabolism: Linamarin, a cyanogenic glycoside, is hydrolyzed, releasing cyanide and causing electrolyte imbalance. Sulfur-containing amino acids convert cyanide to thiocyanate.

Excretion: Approximately 28% of linamarin from sweet cassava is excreted in urine within 24 hours.

Interaction Overview (See Bottom of Page For Full List)

Thyroid Hormone: Cassava may have marked antithyroid effects, potentially interfering with thyroid function and hormone-replacement therapy.

Herbs with Thyroid Activity: Cassava's antithyroid effects may interact with other herbs affecting thyroid hormone activity.

Iodine: Consuming cassava may reduce iodine absorption, increasing the risk of iodine deficiency.

Common Side Effects To Watch For

Cyanide poisoning is a potential side effect, leading to symptoms like vomiting, nausea, stomach pains, and dizziness. Regular cassava intake may increase the risk of hypothyroidism, endemic goiter, and paralytic diseases, especially in protein-deficient diets.

Are Supplements Standardized?

There is insufficient information about the standardization of cassava supplements.

What Is Cassava Typically Used For?

Orally, cassava is used for dehydration, fatigue, fertility, and diabetes.

Drugs that interact with Cassava

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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

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