{"id":42367,"date":"2023-08-05T09:19:00","date_gmt":"2023-08-05T13:19:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.healthygreenkitchen.com\/?p=42367"},"modified":"2023-08-03T17:21:28","modified_gmt":"2023-08-03T21:21:28","slug":"does-eggplant-cause-inflammation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.healthygreenkitchen.com\/does-eggplant-cause-inflammation\/","title":{"rendered":"Does Eggplant Cause Inflammation in the Body?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Eggplants, or aubergines, are popular worldwide and come in many sizes and colors. The most common variety is large and elongated with dark purple skin. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite being a staple in many diets, some people avoid eggplants because they\u2019re part of the nightshade family, which are thought by some to increase chronic inflammation in the body.  <\/p>\n\n\n

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However, research does not support the idea that eggplants cause inflammation. In fact, eggplants contain many beneficial plant compounds with anti-inflammatory properties and other health benefits (1<\/a>). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Learn more about the nutritional qualities of eggplants and what the research says about eggplants and inflammation below. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Does Eggplant Cause Inflammation?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Eggplants are part of the nightshade or Solanaceae family of plants, along with tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes. Many people claim these foods increase inflammation, especially in the context of arthritis (1<\/a>). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is because eggplants contain small amounts of solanine, a plant compound known to be toxic when consumed in large quantities. However, the amount of solanine found naturally in plant foods is not known to cause health problems (1<\/a>). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

While older animal studies identified a link between solanine and gut inflammation, recent research has not replicated these findings. Overall, there\u2019s no definitive evidence that eggplant increases inflammation or worsens arthritis pain (2<\/a>). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In fact, eggplants are rich in nutrients and beneficial plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (3<\/a>). <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Should You Avoid Eating Eggplant?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Though the current research does not support the idea that eggplants are inflammatory, some people report increased arthritis symptoms after eating them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you have concerns about eggplants or other nightshade vegetables triggering your symptoms, you can eliminate them from your diet for a few weeks and document any changes in your joint pain (2<\/a>). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you don\u2019t notice a connection between eggplant and your symptoms, there\u2019s no need to continue avoiding it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The research does support following an anti-inflammatory diet that limits red meat, sugar, saturated fat, and ultra-processed foods for improving arthritis and other inflammatory conditions (2<\/a>).  <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Can Someone Be Allergic to Eggplant?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Though <\/a>rare, it\u2019s possible to be allergic to one or more of the proteins found in eggplant. Most documented cases of eggplant allergy are very mild, but there have been cases of more severe reactions (4<\/a>). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

As with any food, if you experience an allergic reaction after eating eggplant, it\u2019s important to seek medical attention right away. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some people may notice they experience digestive symptoms after eating eggplant. Many foods can cause sensitivities, including eggplant (2<\/a>). Working with a registered dietitian or a gastrointestinal doctor may help you identify the root of your digestive concerns. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Health Benefits of Eggplant<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Eggplant is rich in fiber, nutrients, and antioxidants, which have anti-inflammatory properties and are linked with numerous health benefits. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Eggplant Nutrition Facts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Though technically a fruit<\/a>, eggplant is nutritionally viewed as a non starchy vegetable due to its nutritional composition and culinary uses. It\u2019s low in calories and carbohydrates and rich in fiber (5<\/a>). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

One cup of cooked cubed eggplant contains: <\/p>\n\n\n\n