Posted on January 11, 2008 in Arthritis Diet
Nightshade family vegetables are the most commonly used vegetables. Potatoes, tomatoes and eggplant are few examples of this family. The member of this family contains a chemical compound which taken in high doses might flare up arthritis symptoms. Till date there is no research study conducted which proves the effect of nightshade vegetables on arthritis patients.
Many of the arthritic patients consider Nightshade Vegetables to flare up the condition. There is no research study to support that nightshade vegetables can flare up arthritic condition. But if you feel that by removing these vegetables from your diet can improve your symptoms then go for it. But according to some people nightshade vegetables are useful for arthritic patients as these are low calorie, nutritious vegetables.
Common Vegetables of Nightshade Family:
But the first question arises is which vegetables constitute Nightshade Family. Vegetables belonging to this family are called as nightshade because they are supposed to grow during night. Botanically nightshade family is known as Solanaceae Family. Most common nightshade vegetables are as follows
- Potatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplant
- Tomatoes
- Garden Huckleberry
- Ground Cherries
- Tobacco
Significance of Nightshade Vegetables in Arthritis Patients:
Nightshade vegetables contain solanine which is a glycoalkaloid. Properties of this compound are given below:
- This compound is toxic if consumed in high doses
- It has the potential to affect the enzymatic reactions which involves calcium. Hence results in weakening of the bones and joints.
- It acts as irritants which lead to inflammation especially at the nerve endings and joints.
This compound (Solanine) is present in the green parts of the vegetable. Ensure that the green part is removed before consumption. It is better that you select ripe vegetables before buying. It is advisable for you to remove stalk, stem and leaves while you eat them. Even cooking does not destroy this toxic substance hence you need to be careful while consuming nightshade vegetables.
How Does Nightshade Vegetable Affect Arthritis Patients?
Generally body can mange the toxin levels present in fully ripe and sensibly selected vegetables. But arthritis patient’s body is already stressed and the toxin levels are high. Hence consumption of nightshade vegetables will add to the toxic level and stress. Therefore many arthritis patients complain about pain and inflammation in their joints after consuming nightshade vegetables. You can say this as co-incidence but the number of arthritis cases is more in the area where nightshades consumption is high.
How to Test Sensitivity towards Nightshade Vegetables?
The best way to check your sensitivity towards nightshade vegetables is to avoid them for a month completely. During the month of complete inhibition if you observe some joint pain relief then it is clear that you are sensitive towards nightshade vegetable. Then one at a time introduce them in your diet and check for any increase in your joint pain. This process would help you in determining the specific nightshade vegetable which flares your condition.
How to Deal with Nightshades Sensitivity?
Complete inhibition of nightshade vegetables seems to be difficult but it is the easiest method to control your symptoms. Tomatoes and potatoes are most frequently used nightshade vegetables in preparing sauces and base. Try to avoid nightshade vegetables in your diet. If you’re eating processed food then check the label before consuming it. And once your condition is completely under control then consult your doctor before you start using them.
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February 20th, 2009 at 10:47 pm
I have been trying to find a list of all the nightshades and as of yet haven’t been able to. I have RA and wanna know all of what I have to avoid, does anyone know where I can find a full list of nightshades? I would greatly appreciate it!!!