What Are Lectins?
Lectins are a type of protein found in all forms of life, from plants to animals.
They are one of the most abundant proteins in the world and play a vital role in many biological processes.
For example, lectins help plants to recognize and respond to changes in their environment, such as symbiotic relationships with fungi or other plants.
In animals, lectins are involved in cell-cell recognition, which is important for immune system function and development.
Lectins are also found in the foods we eat. Plants use lectins as a defense mechanism to deter predators and protect themselves from being eaten.
For example, lectins in wheat can bind to the lining of the gut and prevent the absorption of nutrients.
When we eat lectin-containing foods, these proteins can bind to our own cells and cause inflammation.
Why Are Lectins Bad For You?
Lectins are associated with a number of health conditions and digestive problems, including;
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Autoimmune diseases
- Cancer
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Gastrointestinal Issues
The lectins in wheat are a common cause of gastrointestinal distress, including bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
Wheat lectin is also known to damage the lining of the gut, which can lead to a leaky gut. A leaky gut allows toxins and bacteria to enter the bloodstream, which can trigger inflammation throughout the body.
Autoimmune Diseases
Lectins have been linked to autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, and type 1 diabetes.
These proteins can bind to cells in the body and trigger an immune response. This can damage healthy tissue and lead to chronic inflammation.
Cancer
Some lectins, such as those found in soybeans, can promote the growth of cancer cells.
Soy lectin has been shown to bind to insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which is involved in cell growth and proliferation. This can lead to the formation of tumors.
Lectins are also known to interfere with the body’s ability to break down and absorb fats.
This can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Lectins can also contribute to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a condition that affects the digestive system.
IBS is characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Lectins can damage the lining of the gut and cause inflammation, which can lead to these symptoms.
What Are The Symptoms Of Lectin Sensitivity?
Symptoms related to lectin and aquaporosine food sensitivity are as follows:
- Bloating gas / cramping abdomen
- Symptomatic pain and swelling in tendons
- Tiredness
- Skin irritations
- Hormones fluctuate
- Nauseas
- Psychological problems
- Frequent infections
Do Lectins Cause Inflammation?
Lectins are a type of protein that can bind to cells in the body and cause inflammation.
Some people believe that consuming foods high in lectins can lead to health problems, such as digestive issues, joint pain, and fatigue.
Do Lectins Really Cause Leaky Gut?
There is some evidence that lectins may contribute to leaky gut, which is a condition in which the lining of the intestinal wall becomes damaged, allowing bacteria and toxins to enter the bloodstream.
This can lead to inflammation throughout the body.
A study in rats found that lectins increased gut permeability and caused inflammation.
Another study found that lectins from wheat and barley caused damage to the cells that line the intestine, leading to increased gut permeability. However, it’s important to keep in mind that these studies were done in animals, not humans.
More research is needed to understand the effects of lectins on human health.
Worst Foods High In Lectins
The foods that contain the highest levels of lectin are:
- Tomatoes
- Potatoes
- Goji berries
- Peppers
- Okra
- Canned Beans
- Raw kidney beans
- Nuts
- Chickpeas
- Raw Beans
- Whole Grains
- Wheat Grains
- Barley
- Rye
- Raw Legumes
- Nightshade vegetables
- Seeds
Which Beans Are Lowest In Lectins?
Red kidney beans have the highest lectin content of all types of beans.
Black beans, pinto beans, navy beans, and white beans all have lower lectin levels. Properly cooked beans can reduce lectin quantities.
Do Lectins Cause Weight Gain?
There is no direct evidence that lectins cause weight gain or weight loss.
However, some people believe that lectins can contribute to weight gain by causing inflammation and damaging the gut lining.
This can lead to a condition called “leaky gut”, which allows toxins and bacteria to enter the bloodstream.
This may cause weight gain and other health problems.
What Is The Best Way To Cook To Destroy Lectins?
Cooked properly cooked using hot water or boiling or steaming can deactivate many lectins.
Soaking and properly cooked beans can significantly reduce their active lectins content.
The best methods to reduce lectins are:
- Boiling for 30 minutes
- Pressure cooking for 15 minutes
- Using a slow cooker on low for 6 to 8 hours
What Foods Get Rid Of Lectins?
When you’ve been experiencing health problems with lectins, eliminate the foods with high amounts of these, such as wheat, potatoes, tomatoes and peanuts.
Instead add natural lectin blockers like cranberries, okra, kiwis and bladderwrack seaweeds.
Does Pressure Cooking Lentils Remove Lectins?
Yes, pressure cooking can remove lectins from lentils.
Do Polyphenols Block Lectins?
Yes, polyphenols can block lectins.
Polyphenols are found in many plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
They have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and can help to protect the gut lining.
5 Natural Lectin Blockers You Should Eat
There are several natural lectin blockers that you can eat to help reduce the lectins in your diet.
These include:
- Cranberries contain a type of lectin called mannose-binding lectin (MBL). MBL can help to bind to and remove lectins from the gut
- Okra contains a lectin called lectin II. Lectin II has been shown to bind to and remove lectins from the gut
- Kiwifruit contains a lectin called kiwi lectin. Kiwi lectin has been shown to bind to and remove lectins from the gut
- Bladderwrack seaweed contains a lectin called fucoidan. Fucoidan has been shown to bind to and remove lectins from the gut
- Pineapple contains a lectin called bromelain. Bromelain has been shown to bind to and remove lectins from the gut
Summary
Lectins are a type of protein found in all forms of life, from plants to animals.
They are one of the most abundant proteins in the world and play a vital role in many biological processes.
However, lectins are also associated with a number of health problems, including gastrointestinal issues, autoimmune diseases, and even cancer.
Consumed raw, plant foods with lectins present may cause you problems. Fully cooked produce should reduce all the lectins present and may aid weight loss.
Avoiding foods high in lectins, such as wheat, soy, and legumes, may have many health benefits.
Find Your Tribe and Join the Longevity Whale Community. The group is a great place to share information and get ideas from other people looking at ways to increase their lifespan and live healthier for longer.
