A low salicylate diet is a way of eating designed for those with Salicylate sensitivity, an acquired or inherited disorder that affects the body’s ability to process and metabolize certain foods. For those who suffer from this issue, consuming even small amounts of certain food items can cause extreme reactions in the form of inflammation, fatigue, headache, skin problems, and digestive issues. While specific details may vary from person to person, adhering to a low salicylate diet can help relieve these symptoms and improve overall health.
But what exactly is Salicylate? Salicylates are organic compounds found naturally in many plants and fruits. They are used as preservatives in some foods, particularly processed goods. In addition to providing flavorings and colorings to food products, they also act as natural insect repellents and protect plants from disease. Foods that contain high levels of salicylates include apples, oranges, tomatoes, eggplant, grapes, and plums. Salicylates are also found in tea, coffee, and spices like cloves and cinnamon.
Due to their abundance in everyday diets, those with Salicylate sensitivity must understand which foods they should avoid or limit; this includes anything containing salicylates directly or indirectly through added flavoring agents (such as honey). Living a lifestyle that avoids high-salicylate foods can be challenging but not impossible — by substituting healthier alternatives for problematic items one can still enjoy a varied diet without risking serious medical complications or unpleasant side effects.
In this guide, you will know more about:
Salicylate sensitivity, its symptoms, cause, diagnosis, and treatments.
Low salicylate diet, foods to avoid, and foods to eat
A 3-step plan on how to get started with a low salicylate diet
Sample recipes of low-salicylate dishes
Keep reading for more information about living a low-salicylate lifestyle.
