Category: Nightshades

Eggplant is a nutritious nightshade vegetable, but for those on a strict Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet, it's off the menu during the elimination phase. The AIP eliminates nightshades because they contain compounds that may worsen autoimmune symptoms in some sensitive individuals.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, bell peppers contain antioxidants and vitamin C, which may actually help reduce inflammation in the body. This directly challenges the misconception that green peppers cause inflammation, and understanding their place in the nightshade family is key to separating fact from fiction.

A scientific study found that while eggplant contains a compound called solanine, the levels in ripe fruit are far below toxic thresholds. So, does eggplant have any toxic compounds? The answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no.