Betel Nut: Life-Threatening Disease Risk! Stop Chewing Paan Now

• Betel nuts, widely used in India for rituals and as an intoxicant, are the fourth most consumed intoxicant globally after nicotine, alcohol, and caffeine.
• Many chew betel nuts for an instant energy boost, as natural alkaloids release adrenaline, creating a feeling of energy and happiness.
• Ayurveda suggests minimal betel nut powder can kill intestinal worms, but its medicinal benefits are limited and not fully scientifically proven.
• The WHO classifies betel nut as a carcinogen, linking it to oral and esophageal cancers, and an incurable condition called Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSMF).
• Betel nut use is associated with heart disease, metabolic syndrome, obesity, and, especially with tobacco, low birth weight in babies; it also causes gum inflammation and tooth decay.

Why It Matters: Betel nuts, though culturally significant, are a carcinogen linked to severe health issues including cancer and addiction.