FDA's Halloween Warning: Go Easy On Black Licorice

PALM DESERT, CA -- Before you take a bite into that black licorice, here's something you should know.

The tasty candy contains the compound glycyrrhizin, which can cause potassium levels in the body to fall, according to the Food and Drug Administration. It's most problematic for those 40 and older who eat at least two ounces of the candy a day.

"When that (potassium levels fall) happens, some people experience abnormal heart rhythms, as well as high blood pressure, edema (swelling), lethargy, and congestive heart failure," according to a press release by the FDA.

The warning was issued after a "black licorice aficionado" apparently had health issues after consistently eating the candy.

Have you've already eaten a not-so-healthy dose of black licorice? No problem. The FDA says quit now and your "potassium levels are usually restored with no permanent health problems."

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