Why People Put Nails in Apples – Does It Really Work and Is It Safe?

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Iron Content Comparison:

  • Apple with nails: A few milligrams (highly variable)

  • 100g beef liver: ~6 mg

  • Iron supplement tablet: 18–30 mg

While the method works chemically, it provides only a tiny fraction of the iron in modern supplements and is not effective for treating serious anemia.

Is It Safe Today?

Potential Benefits:

  • Provides a small amount of iron

  • Natural and inexpensive

Risks:

  • Contamination: Modern nails may be coated with zinc, galvanized metal, or stainless steel, which can be toxic

  • Rust: Rusty nails can harbor bacteria and harmful substances

  • Uncontrolled dosage: You cannot measure the exact amount of iron absorbed

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