Health foods and diets are all the rage, with superfoods like kale, blueberries, and acai taking center stage. We all know to avoid deep-fried and sugary foods, but despite our efforts to eat plenty of fruits, veggies, and whole grains, rates of obesity and inflammation-related diseases are on the rise. So, what’s the deal?
Dr. Steven R. Gundry’s book, The Plant Paradox: The Hidden Dangers in “Healthy” Foods That Cause Disease and Weight Gain sheds light on the dangers of certain plant foods that we commonly perceive as healthy. As a former professor of cardiothoracic surgery and the director of the Center for Restorative Medicine in California, Gundry challenges our assumptions and offers an alternative perspective.
Key Takeaways
Plants’ Defense Mechanism: Proteins that Confuse the Mind and Expand the Waistline
While we’re familiar with the concept of animals evolving to avoid predators, we often forget that plants also possess their own defense mechanisms. One such secret weapon is lectin, a protein found in the seeds, leaves, grains, and skins of most plants. When consumed, lectin binds to sugar molecules in our brain and nerves, leading to brain fog, difficulty focusing, and memory issues. The purpose of lectin is to teach animals not to consume these plants in the future.
However, for humans, lectin can cause more problems beyond mental cloudiness. Wheat, in particular, contains a type of lectin that triggers weight gain. Consuming this lectin causes sugar to enter our fat cells, leading to unwanted pounds. While our ancestors relied on a “wheat belly” to survive harsh winters, it’s not as beneficial for us in modern times.
Whole-Grain Foods: A Double-Edged Sword
Whole-grain foods have gained popularity as a health-conscious choice. However, they come with their own set of complications. To understand why, let’s delve into the mechanics of digestion.
Our gastrointestinal tract houses trillions of microbes that aid in converting food to energy. These beneficial gut bacteria play a vital role in our overall well-being. If they manage to escape the intestines, our bodies perceive them as foreign invaders and initiate an immune response against ourselves. Here’s where lectins enter the picture. They increase the permeability of the intestinal tract, causing valuable microbes to spill out.
Historically, societies removed the bran (which contains lectin) from grains, mitigating the risk. However, the recent emphasis on whole grains as healthy options means we consume more lectin than ever before. This increased lectin intake raises the likelihood of developing autoimmune disorders like diabetes and Crohn’s disease.
Unearthing Optimal Health: The Plant Paradox Program
Traditional diets often focus on what to eat, but Gundry’s Plant Paradox Program highlights the importance of avoiding certain foods. The author believes that what you don’t eat can be more critical than what you do eat. By eliminating harmful substances from your diet, you can prevent adverse reactions in your body.
To begin the program, Gundry advises avoiding legumes (lentils, peas, and beans), which have high lectin content. Other exclusions include potatoes, cucumbers, tomatoes, fruits that are out of season, and any food containing wheat flour. A complete list can be found online.
Preparing your body is essential for embarking on this dietary journey. Gundry suggests starting with a three-day cleanse to remove even trace amounts of lectin, allowing your gut to heal. Additionally, he encourages supplementing your diet with essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and vitamin D, as the nutritional value of fruits and vegetables has steadily declined over the years.
The Plant Paradox: A Book that Challenges the Norm
Reading The Plant Paradox can be mind-boggling, leaving you with questions and skepticism. While the idea of plants defending themselves seems plausible, the book’s discouragement of foods known to promote heart health and fight cancer, such as whole grains and legumes, may leave you in doubt. It’s essential to conduct your research and form your own opinions.
In the end, The Plant Paradox offers a different perspective for individuals seeking alternative views on plant-based nutrition and those curious about leaky gut syndrome. If you’re up for trying a potentially unconventional diet plan, this book might be worth exploring.
Last Updated on August 30, 2022
Source: Ames Farm Center (amesfarmcenter.com)
