While lectins are natural proteins in many plant-based foods, some people may be sensitive to them or exclude them. Six high-lectin foods:
1. Legumes
Beans, lentils, peas, and peanuts are all legumes that are high in lectins, especially when eaten raw or barely cooked.
2. Nightshade Vegetables
Tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and potatoes are all nightshade vegetables, and their seeds and skins are full of lectins.
3. Grains
Whole grains like wheat, barley, rye, and oats contain lectins, especially in their outer layers or hulls.
4. Soybeans
Lectins are found in large amounts in soy beans and soy products like tofu, tempeh, and soy sauce, especially if they are not cooked or processed properly.
5. Nuts and Seeds
Some nuts and seeds, including cashews, almonds, sunflower seeds, and chia seeds, contain lectins.
6. Dairy
Dairy products, particularly those produced from A1-type cows, may contain lectins. However, the lectin content in dairy is generally lower compared to plant-based sources.