Nightshades and paleo diet alkaloids inflammation sensitivity-min

Nightshades and Paleo

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Perhaps you avoid nightshades yourself, or have noticed a lot of people do?  Is there any reason for avoiding them?

Nightshades are in the Solanaceae family, which comprises 2,800 types of plant.  The common nightshades include potatoes (which aren't consumed on a Paleo regime, so I won’t be talking about them), tomatoes, all types of peppers/ capsicum, eggplant, tomatillos, tamarios, paprika and cayenne.   Sweet potatoes are related, but belong to the Convolvulaceae family, so aren't classed as a nightshade.  Similarly black pepper is not classed as a nightshade as it belongs to the Piperaceae family.

Nightshades contain alkaloids, which the plant produces as a defence mechanism.  Some alkaloids have been shown to interact with nerve activity and inflammation, which may impact conditions such as arthritis and gout, as well as gut irritation.  Many people have no sensitivities to Nightshades, but those that do may find avoidance very beneficial.  Cooking decreases the alkaloid content by up to 50%, so for those with borderline sensitivity, this can be a good option.

If you think you may have a sensitivity, eliminating nightshades for 30 days before reintroducing should give a clear indication as to the effect these plant have on you.  If you find you do have a sensitivity, you might chose to avoid them on a more permanent basis.

Hidden Sources of Nightshades You Might Be Overlooking

If you’ve eliminated the obvious nightshades — like tomatoes, capsicum and eggplant — but still experience symptoms associated with intolerance, it’s worth checking your pantry and fridge for hidden sources. Nightshade derivatives are commonly used in spice blends, sauces, seasonings and even processed meats.

Watch for these often-overlooked ingredients:

  • Chilli powder and cayenne pepper: Found in many spice blends, rubs and marinades.
  • Paprika (including smoked): A standard addition to many BBQ rubs, sausages and dips.
  • Tomato paste and powders: Used in stock cubes, sauces, and as flavour enhancers in snacks.
  • Capsicum extract: Sometimes labelled as “natural flavouring” in chips or dressings.

Many nightshade-sensitive people report marked improvements in joint pain, skin clarity and digestive health only after removing these hidden triggers. Reading ingredient labels and cooking from scratch makes a huge difference if you’re conducting a proper elimination.

Nightshades and Autoimmune Protocols (AIP)

The Autoimmune Paleo Protocol (AIP) is a stricter elimination plan designed to reduce inflammation and support healing in those with autoimmune conditions. Nightshades are completely excluded during the elimination phase of AIP due to their potential to exacerbate systemic inflammation, increase intestinal permeability and trigger immune reactions.

For individuals with conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, or Crohn’s disease, removing nightshades can sometimes lead to a dramatic reduction in flares and symptoms. Once the body has stabilised, some people choose to reintroduce certain cooked nightshades (like peeled, pressure-cooked tomatoes) in small amounts, monitoring for any return of symptoms.

How Alkaloids Affect the Gut and Joints

There are several alkaloids of concern when it comes to nightshade intolerance:

  • Solanine: Primarily found in potatoes and green tomatoes, solanine can disrupt digestive enzymes and irritate the intestinal lining.
  • Capsaicin: The compound responsible for the heat in chillies, capsaicin can be an irritant to sensitive stomachs and may contribute to GERD or gastritis in some individuals.
  • Nicotinoid alkaloids: Found in low levels in all nightshades, these compounds are chemically similar to nicotine and can influence nerve function and stress responses.

These compounds may be harmless in moderate amounts for most people, but for those with underlying gut permeability (“leaky gut”) or chronic inflammation, they can exacerbate symptoms and hinder healing. Since Paleo focuses so heavily on healing the gut and restoring balance, nightshade avoidance can be a valuable short- or long-term strategy for some.

Common Symptoms of Nightshade Sensitivity

If you’re unsure whether nightshades are affecting you, here are some signs that may indicate a sensitivity:

  • Persistent joint pain or stiffness, particularly in the morning
  • Digestive discomfort, bloating or cramping after meals
  • Skin flare-ups, such as eczema or acne
  • Fatigue or brain fog that’s hard to explain
  • Heartburn or reflux following spicy or tomato-rich meals

Tracking symptoms and keeping a food journal during your elimination phase can be incredibly helpful. Symptoms may not appear immediately after consumption, so observing patterns over several days is key to identifying correlations.

Substituting Nightshades in Paleo Cooking

One of the biggest challenges for people avoiding nightshades is reworking their favourite recipes. Fortunately, many Paleo dishes can be adapted with a little creativity. Here are some substitutions to consider:

  • Instead of tomato-based sauces: Try pureed roasted beetroot or carrot with a splash of apple cider vinegar and herbs for acidity and depth.
  • Replace paprika or chilli powder: Use dried herbs like thyme, oregano or turmeric for flavour without the heat. A small amount of ginger can mimic spice in some dishes.
  • Swap capsicum in salads: Use thin slices of fennel or cucumber for crunch and freshness.
  • Use sweet potato instead of white potato: In many cases, sweet potato provides a similar texture and is nutrient-dense without the problematic compounds.

Many AIP and nightshade-free recipes have been developed in recent years, and it's becoming easier to find inspiration from cookbooks and blogs that specifically cater to these dietary needs.

Reintroducing Nightshades Safely

If you've eliminated nightshades for at least 30 days and noticed improvements, reintroduction should be done slowly and methodically. Introduce one nightshade at a time, ideally cooked and peeled (to reduce alkaloid exposure), and wait 72 hours before trying the next. Watch closely for any return of symptoms such as joint discomfort, digestive changes, or mood shifts.

Some people find they can tolerate certain nightshades better than others — for instance, they may handle small amounts of cooked tomato but not raw capsicum. Others may do fine with chillies in moderation but react to eggplant. The goal is to find your personal threshold, not necessarily to eliminate an entire food group permanently unless needed.

Listen to Your Body

As with every element of the Paleo lifestyle, the key is tuning in to how you feel and using food as a tool for health. While nightshades may be nutrient-rich and fine for many, they’re simply not right for everyone — and that’s okay. Honouring your individual response to foods is a huge part of building a sustainable, nourishing routine.

If you’re experiencing unexplained inflammation, skin issues, or digestive discomfort, it might be time to trial a nightshade elimination. The effort is minimal compared to the potential relief it can bring, and your meals can remain flavourful, satisfying and deeply nourishing — even without tomatoes and peppers on the plate.

Do you eat Nightshades?  Do you have a sensitivity to them?

Nightshades and paleo diet alkaloids inflammation sensitivity-min

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Why You Should Throw Away Your Non-Stick Cookware teflon frying pan dangerous paleo diet-min

Why You Should Throw Away Your Non-Stick Cookware!

So, you’ve got your Paleo diet tuned in, you exercise Primally and sleep soundly; but what do you cook with?

Non stick Teflon frying pans are everywhere.  If you don’t cook with them, you’re definitely in the enlightened minority.  It’s easy to see why this cookware is so popular.  It’s so cheap to buy, depending on where you buy your cookware, it may even be the only option.  Non stick cookware is also very easy to cook on – with no thought about temperatures; you’re likely to get it right.  It’s also very easy to clean.

So, what’s wrong with non-stick cookware?

The coating of many brands of non-stick cookware contains Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) which has been shown to have carcinogenic properties.  Over time & usage the coating from these non-stick pans is often damaged, at which stage it should not be used, to avoid consumption of toxins.  Once in the bloodstream there is no biological mechanism for removal of PFOA’s.

What should I cook with instead?!

There are several good alternatives to non-stick.   Cast iron, copper, stainless steel or enamelled cookware are the most popular Paleo options.  They are more expensive, but a good cast iron pan will last a lifetime.  You can also look for second hand pots and pans, which are likely to be very cost effective; even a rusty old iron pan can be cleaned, seasoned and given a new lease of life!

Cooking on iron

When you first get your iron pan you’ll need to season it.  This can be done by coating the pan in a fat, such as lard before putting it in a low temperature oven for a few minutes, allowing the iron to take up the oil.  It should then be cooled and excess oil rinsed out.  Soap should never be used on cast iron cookware.

Cooking on cast-iron is different to non-stick cooking, but once you’ve got the hang of it, you should be able to cook without food sticking to the pan.   It’s important to heat the pan before adding food (even the fat you’re cooking with) to avoid it sticking.  Food should generally be room temperature, not cold when adding to the pan, by leaving it out of the refrigerator for a few minutes before cooking.  The temperature shouldn’t be too high, or to low.  The final tip is to make sure you don’t shy away from using lots of fat, making this method of cooking very Paleo!

Other Kitchen Tools and Materials to Watch Out For

While non-stick pans are a major concern for those following a natural, health-conscious lifestyle like Paleo, they aren’t the only kitchen culprit. Many other common tools and surfaces in your kitchen could be exposing you to chemicals, toxins or contaminants without you even realising.

Plastic Utensils and Containers

Just as Teflon poses health risks, so do many types of plastic used in the kitchen. Cheap spatulas, mixing bowls, and storage containers often contain BPA (Bisphenol A), phthalates, or other endocrine-disrupting compounds. These substances can leach into your food, particularly when heated. Even so-called “microwave-safe” plastics are not necessarily safe under high temperatures.

Opt instead for wooden utensils, stainless steel mixing bowls, and glass containers for storage and reheating. These materials are inert, do not leach harmful substances, and are better for the environment too.

Aluminium Cookware

Uncoated aluminium pots and pans are lightweight and inexpensive, but aluminium is a reactive metal. Cooking acidic foods (like tomato-based sauces) in aluminium can cause the metal to leach into your meals. While the link between aluminium exposure and health conditions like Alzheimer’s remains under debate, most Paleo followers prefer to avoid unnecessary exposure altogether.

If you like the feel of aluminium cookware, make sure it’s anodised, which provides a non-reactive coating, or opt for safer alternatives like enamelled cast iron or stainless steel.

How to Build a Safe Paleo Kitchen

When living a Paleo lifestyle, the food you prepare is only part of the equation. The way you prepare it matters too. Here are a few simple swaps you can make to align your kitchen with your health goals:

1. Replace Non-Stick with Cast Iron or Stainless Steel

As covered earlier, cast iron and stainless steel are far superior to non-stick options. They’re free from harmful coatings, extremely durable, and can be used on a variety of heat sources. Once properly seasoned, cast iron becomes naturally non-stick.

2. Ditch the Microwave

Microwaves are incredibly convenient, but many Paleo followers prefer to reheat meals using the stovetop or oven instead. This not only avoids uneven heating and plastic leaching but also keeps you closer to traditional cooking methods. A little planning ahead makes this transition surprisingly easy.

3. Opt for Glass and Ceramic Bakeware

Instead of using aluminium trays or non-stick muffin tins, choose glass or ceramic bakeware for oven use. These materials don’t emit fumes, don't scratch or peel, and are often easier to clean than you’d expect.

4. Use Wooden or Bamboo Cutting Boards

Plastic cutting boards, though common, can harbour bacteria in scratches and knife grooves. Wooden and bamboo cutting boards are naturally antimicrobial, long-lasting and align better with the natural, whole-foods approach of Paleo cooking. Just be sure to wash and dry them thoroughly between uses.

Natural Cleaning Tips for Cookware

If you're investing in quality cookware, it's important to care for it properly using safe, chemical-free cleaning methods. Here’s how to keep your pans and pots in great condition:

  • Cast iron: Scrub gently with hot water and coarse salt. Dry thoroughly and re-oil after use to maintain the seasoning layer.
  • Stainless steel: Use baking soda and vinegar to remove tough stains and maintain shine without toxic cleaners.
  • Glass and ceramic: Avoid harsh scouring pads. Soak in warm water with bicarb soda to loosen baked-on food.

Safer Cooking = Better Flavour

Many people transitioning from non-stick to more traditional cookware are surprised at how much better their food tastes. Iron and steel pans can sear meat beautifully, creating depth and richness that’s difficult to achieve with a synthetic-coated pan. These cooking surfaces distribute heat more evenly and help food brown properly — which, let’s face it, is one of the best parts of Paleo cooking.

Invest in Quality and Save Long Term

One of the myths about traditional cookware is that it’s unaffordable. But consider this: a cheap non-stick pan may last only a year or two before it warps, scratches or flakes. A well-maintained cast iron skillet, on the other hand, can be passed down through generations. Stainless steel pans are also virtually indestructible and often come with lifetime warranties.

Buying second-hand or at op-shops can be a brilliant way to get quality cookware at a fraction of the cost. Just be sure to inspect for cracks or warping, particularly with enamelled items, and always clean thoroughly before first use.

Keep It Paleo From Source to Stove

Your commitment to Paleo doesn’t stop with shopping at farmers markets and choosing grass-fed meat. The tools you use to prepare your meals should be part of the same philosophy — avoiding industrial chemicals, prioritising durability, and embracing traditional practices.

If you’re cooking Paleo meals every day, you’ll notice a big difference when you switch to quality cookware and safer kitchen materials. Your food will taste better, you’ll cook with greater confidence, and you’ll feel better knowing your meals are as clean as your ingredients.

What About Slow Cookers, Air Fryers and Pressure Cookers?

While these gadgets aren’t exactly “ancestral,” they can still have a place in a modern Paleo kitchen. Look for slow cookers and pressure cookers with stainless steel or ceramic inner pots rather than non-stick or Teflon-coated ones. Many Instant Pot models now offer stainless steel options that are both durable and safe for Paleo cooking.

Air fryers are growing in popularity, especially for creating crispy textures without the need for deep frying. Some brands now offer ceramic-coated baskets as a safer alternative to traditional non-stick coatings — just check the specs before purchasing.

Final Thoughts

Building a safe, natural kitchen isn’t about perfection — it’s about awareness. By switching out a few common tools and embracing traditional cookware, you can significantly reduce your exposure to harmful substances and align your kitchen practices with your Paleo lifestyle. Whether you're frying eggs, searing a steak or simmering bone broth, doing it with clean, toxin-free tools is one more step towards a healthier, more intentional way of living.

What do you cook with?  I’d love to hear your cookware tips and hints in the comments below.

Why You Should Throw Away Your Non-Stick Cookware teflon frying pan dangerous paleo diet-min