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10 Foods High in Lectins to Avoid

Tomatoes & Nuts

Tomatoes contain a strong antioxidant, lycopene which helps protect the skin from dangerous sun rays. They are non-starchy. Studies show that tomatoes contain high amounts of lectins that usually bind to the intestinal villi (finger-like structures that aid food absorption). The lectins in tomatoes are known to resist digestion, but they do not have any negative effect on health. The lectin content in tomatoes is directly linked to their seeds. Therefore, removing them may reduce their lectin content.

Lectins are a major constituent of nuts. According to studies, almonds contain higher amounts of lectins than peanuts. The concentration of lectin in plants decreases anytime they are cooked for a long period. Soaking nuts and seeds in water for a long period also decrease their lectin content.