Harmful dietary lectins are present in many common foods. This is a place to explore the possible role of lectins in leaky gut syndrome, dysbiosis, IgG food sensitivities, inflammation, viruses, autoimmunity, thyroid/adrenal problems, enzyme and secretin inhibition, etc. Strategies to address lectin intolerance will be discussed, including: special diets; traditional food preparation techniques like soaking, sprouting, and fermentation; and supplements.

Lectin intolerance can be genetic or caused by environmental factors (heavy metal toxicity would be one probable cause, though there are many others). Bacterial or viral infections can trigger it, as can NSAIDs and some other drugs. Low SIgA may be a marker for lectin intolerance, as SIgA is protective.

Lectins are resistant to digestive enzymes.

Related topics include the implications of genetically modified foods on human health, and the role of beneficial lectins in immunity and medical applications.

Although the focus of this group is to help children with autism spectrum disorders, interested adults who have IBS, Crohn’s, colitis, celiac, MS, rheumatoid arthritis, Parkinson’s, etc., are also welcome.

Please be advised: Statements posted on this list are for information only, and should NOT be taken as medical advice. If you need medical advice, you should seek it from a licensed medical practitioner.

For more information go here:

• Do Dietary Lectins Cause Disease? 
• The Lectin Report   
• Essential Sugars and Plant Lectins