A plum pit, also known as a stone, is often accidentally swallowed. It is a seed encased in a hard, protective shell that the human digestive system cannot process. When ingested whole, the pit is classified as an indigestible foreign object that must pass through the entire gastrointestinal tract. Understanding this mechanical process and the pit’s chemical contents can help alleviate anxiety.
The Physical Passage Through the Digestive Tract
The length of time a plum pit takes to pass is typically one to three days, similar to the average transit time for most ingested foreign bodies in adults. The hard outer layer of the pit is primarily composed of cellulose and lignin, materials resistant to breakdown. Human digestive enzymes and strong stomach acid are ineffective against this dense, fibrous structure.
The process is mechanical, relying on peristalsis, the rhythmic muscular contractions of the digestive tract. The pit travels through the esophagus, stomach, and then the small and large intestines. Its smooth, rounded shape usually allows it to navigate these passages without complication. Passage time depends on individual factors like diet, hydration, and intestinal motility.
Understanding the Toxicity Risk of Amygdalin
The main chemical concern regarding plum pits is the presence of amygdalin, a compound stored within the seed. Amygdalin belongs to a class of cyanogenic glycosides. While amygdalin itself is not toxic, when metabolized, it converts into hydrogen cyanide.
The hard, intact shell of a swallowed pit provides a natural defense mechanism, preventing the release of amygdalin. Since the whole pit passes through the system undigested, the compound remains safely locked away and is excreted. Danger arises only if the pit is chewed or crushed before swallowing. Mechanical damage allows amygdalin to mix with enzymes, initiating the reaction that produces toxic cyanide. Symptoms of cyanide exposure include headache, nausea, and dizziness. The primary risk from toxicity is associated with intentionally consuming the crushed seeds of many stone fruits.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Swallowing a whole plum pit is usually harmless, but specific symptoms warrant immediate medical evaluation. The primary risk from a whole pit is physical obstruction, most likely to occur in the narrow sections of the small intestine. Symptoms of a physical blockage include severe, persistent abdominal pain and cramping.
Other warning signs of obstruction include repeated vomiting, abdominal swelling, and the inability to pass gas or stool. If these symptoms occur following the ingestion of a plum pit, emergency medical consultation is advised. Additionally, if an individual chewed or crushed the pit and experiences symptoms like dizziness, rapid heart rate, or confusion, they should seek immediate care for possible cyanide poisoning.