Lectin Sensitivity

Naturally occurring lectins in food are difficult to digest and can trigger symptoms in some people, known as lectin sensitivity. So, what are lectins? What are foods high in lectins?

What are lectins?

Lectins are a type of protein that can bind to sugar. Produced as part of a plants natural defence system, they are found in most plants to help ward off insects, mould and fungi.

Foods High in Lectins

Lectin sensitivity is a common underlying trigger for multiple food sensitivities, so it is no surprise that some of the foods high in lectins include:

• Grains – especially whole grains because they are highly concentrated in the outer bran of the grain. White rice, on the other hand, is said to be the lowest-lectin grain because lectins are removed during the processing stage.
• Gluten – possibly the most well-known lectin, found in wheat, barley and rye
• Nightshades – a group of plants known as the Solanaceae family, that include potatoes, tomatoes, eggplants, peppers and goji berries
• Legumes – like beans, lentils and peas
• Dairy foods – such as milk, butter and cheese. Interestingly, dairy products contain an immunoglobulin that helps neutralise lectins; however, this antibody is destroyed during pasteurisation.
• Nuts and seeds – mainly grain-based seeds such as wheat, spelt, barley oat and rye

Symptoms of Lectin Sensitivity

Lectins are notoriously difficult to digest. So most lectin reactions result in digestive symptoms such as:

• gas, bloating and flatulence
• diarrhoea or constipation (often alternating between)
• indigestion
• reflux

If lectins pass through the gut lining (in cases of leaky gut), they can trigger flare-ups in many inflammatory conditions, such as;

• eczema and psoriasis
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
• arthritis and rhematoid arthritis
• all auto-immune conditions

What causes lectin sensitivity?

Lectins are a type of glycoprotein that causes cells to “clump” together. This can make them more resistant to stomach acid and digestive enzymes, which means they are difficult to digest.

When lectins are not processed correctly in the gut, they can get stuck in the gut wall. And this can damage the gut lining and contribute to leaky gut. Leaky gut occurs when the gut becomes porous or ‘holey’ allowing food particles, toxins and bacteria to pass into the bloodstream.

This can contribute to the development of multiple food sensitivites, food allergies and autoimmune conditions (1).

Managing Lectin Sensitivity

Eat more veggies

Certain high-fibre (mucilaginous) vegetables – such as okra – and seaweeds contain components that can bind to lectins, protecting the gut lining.

Try supplements

Some supplements may help. For instance, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) can help absorb lectins in the gut, D-mannose binds and blocks the lectins in legumes, and N-acetyl-D glucosamine binds and blocks lectins in wheat. Speak to your healthcare practitioner about the best option for you.

Heal leaky gut 

A two-step Naturopathic approach involves supplements, vitamins and herbs – including glutamine, vitamin A and D, and aloe vera – to help protect and nourish a damaged gut lining.

Try PAT for lectin sensitivity

PAT is a non-invasive holistic therapy, which:

• draws on acupressure and kinesiology techniques
• aims to re-train your body
• may reduce your reactions to lectins

At Health & Wellness Australia & Auckland (HWA), our Naturopaths use a form of muscle testing (kinesiology) to help pinpoint the food and environmental substances triggering your symptoms.

Following this, we perform a natural allergy treatment called Positive Association Technique (PAT), which aims to reduce your reactions and symptoms.

Some cases can be complex, so our Naturopaths may also recommend supplements and herbs, and provide lifestyle advice to help you achieve the best long-term results.

Get in touch

• Call us on 1300 853 023 / 09 479 5997 (NZ) to chat to our friendly staff
• Send us your question HERE
• Request a Free PAT Information E-PACK HERE

Please note this blog is general information only. Always consult your healthcare professional before making any diet or lifestyle changes

---

Related Articles

---