If you're wary of nightshades or trying new things, you may wonder whether tomatillos are worth adding to your grocery cart. Solanine has been linked to aggravated joint pain and inflammation. Many people are concerned about foods in the nightshade family being linked to inflammation, autoimmune conditions, allergies, or sensitivities. 5. These chemicals include: Alkaloids and glycoalkaloids, which are naturally occurring pesticides. But, nightshades (also known as Solanaceae) encompasses a whole family of flowering plants that includes many very popular fruits and vegetables that you probably eat daily. Tomatillos impart a bright, citrus flavor to many traditional South American dishes. Inflammation is the result of the body’s immune response kicking into gear to help your body heal and protect you from further injury (think swelling, pain, cough, fever). Although it may not surprise you to know that “unhealthy” food can cause inflammation, it might shock you to learn that a number of healthy foods can be inflammation-causing-culprits as well. Don't deprive yourself of nutritious plant-based foods that are good for your health simply because they contain lectins. What you need to know about which concerns are legit – and which are not. However, finally realized: no cost and all I had to lose was pain. Hi Anne. Following an anti-inflammatory diet is one way to counter some of the chronic inflammation that comes from leading a not-so-healthy lifestyle. Simple, nightshades (night blooming plants) contain inflammatory chemicals. Most arguments are based on certain chemicals found in nightshades, although these are also present in many other healthy foods. Sugars. It helps your body protect and heal itself. I understand your concern. Simple acronym, PPET – potatoes, peppers, eggplant, tomatoes. The peels and seeds of nightshades are where the lectin content is at its heaviest. It doesn’t cure arthritis, but it stops inflammation and the pain that comes with it. Some people say they have less joint pain and inflammation when they stop eating nightshades, but research hasn't shown this. Well, it depends. Don’t eat them. 6. There’s no research that shows that nightshades cause inflammation. Sorry about that confusion. Nightshades contain an alkaloid called solanine which is toxic in high concentrations. Reduce / Eliminate Nightshades. Lindsay Cotter says. The problems with too much Inflammation: • Harming your gut: A large amount of your immune cells that fight to keep you healthy are in your intestines. Reply. Fiber can ease inflammation caused by your RA, and protein can help keep the muscles that support your joints strong. The causes of this type of inflammation are all around you. Read on for a comprehensive list of nightshades, and to find out why you might want to avoid nightshades to protect or revitalize your health. I’ve received a lot of email asking if tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, and other foods that are nightshades are “allowed” on a gluten free anti inflammatory diet. This normal type of inflammation is a good thing. Nightshades cause inflammation so how can these recipes be anti-inflammatory? November 10, 2018 at 1:50 PM. 1. ... Know Your Nightshades. The list of nightshades includes fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, potatoes (but not sweet potatoes), eggplant, bell peppers, and goji berries. In fact, it’s just the opposite. Take tomatoes, for example. However, when your immune system shifts out of balance, inflammation can run rampant — causing a chronic, smoldering fire inside your body that contributes to disease and weight gain. Nightshades include: white potatoes, peppers, tomatoes, eggplants and paprika. With lots of benefits to offer, tomatillos bring variety and a … Though no scientific studies currently support this finding, The Arthritis Foundation reports that many patients do find this to be the case. That said, many believe they cause inflammation or toxicity. The Most Common Nightshades If you're ready to get back on the path to healthy eating, try these 15 foods that are all nutritious and fit perfectly into an anti-inflammatory diet. Nightshade Vegetables and Inflammation. Pro-inflammatory Agent: Excessive sugar intake causes tooth decay and has been linked to increased risks of obesity, inflammation and chronic diseases such as metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. “The phytochemicals in tomatoes have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect,” Bontempo says. I love all these vegetables. I noted at the top that this is a basic anti-inflammatory meal plan and to be aware of nightshade sensitivity. Arnica Pellets Some of these recipes use nightshades. Specifically, inflammation can be caused by a number of foods. Everyone reacts differently to foods that are nightshades, so it comes down to listening to your body. 4. If you’re already dealing with chronic inflammation, even small amounts of solanine can exacerbate your inflammation.