We all know that candy is laden with sugar and calories, and is not the most healthy of foods to eat. But as we are coming upon the biggest candy eating day of the year, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is offering some advice to indulging in certain sweets -- in particular, black licorice. The FDA is reporting that in some people, eating too much black licorice may cause arrhythmias, or abnormal heartbeats. Beside arrhythmias, it can lead to lethargy, congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, or swelling (edema) in individuals aged 40 and over.

Licorice is derived from the roots of the licorice plant and is flavored with licorice extract. It's most commonly found in the form of ropes or tubes, which is quite chewy. In its most basic sense, licorice is made up of sugar, a binder, and licorice extract.

However, black licorice also contains a compound called glycyrrhizin, which can result in a drop in the body's potassium level because it causes the kidneys to excrete potassium. Low levels of potassium can cuase a heart to beat out of sync or beat dangerously fast. The FDA warns that if you're 40 years of age or older, simply eating two ounces of black licorice per day could lead to an irregular heart beat or arrhythmia. Further, black licorice can interfere with certain dietary supplements, herbs, and medications.

If you have been experiencing muscle weakness or an irregular heart rhythm after indulging in black licorice, then stop eating black licorice immediate and see your physician, advises the FDA.