Most plant foods contain the chemicals salicylates in varying amounts. These chemicals perform various functions including protecting the plant from rotting, fungi and mold. Manufacturers also use these compounds in a variety of foods. Some people have a strong sensitivity to salicylates, and symptoms of a reaction include trouble breathing, headaches, hives, changes in skin color and swelling of the hands, feet and face. The level of tolerance for salicylates varies among individuals, and the foods to avoid can likewise vary. Avoid making any drastic changes to your diet without consulting your doctor or registered dietitian.
Importance of Tracking Your Diet
Because so many foods contain salicylates to some degree, you likely cannot completely avoid them. Additionally, many forms of salicylates exist and you might not have sensitivity to all of them. The Auckland Allergy Clinic in New Zealand encourages you to track your diet and symptoms to determine which foods bother you. This undertaking can also help you determine how much of a certain food you can tolerate. The clinic notes that most people can tolerate most salicylate-containing foods in small amounts. Considering so many healthy foods contain these chemicals, doing your best to narrow down your problem foods will ensure you do not unnecessarily cut out healthy foods. You might consider working with a registered dietitian for guidance.
Plant Foods
Certain fruits and vegetables have a higher amount of salicylates and might prove the most problematic. A partial list of fruits includes apricots, cherries, most types of berries, grapes, dates, oranges, pineapples, raisins and tangerines. Some vegetables with a high content include tomatoes and tomato-based products, radishes, olives, hot peppers, cauliflower, mushrooms, eggplant, spinach, zucchini and broccoli. The Cleveland Clinic also notes that nuts like pine nuts, peanuts, pistachios and almonds contain salicylates.
Cooked versions of any of these foods will contain fewer salicylates than their fresh, dried or juiced counterparts.
Other Salicylate Foods
Candy and snack foods that contain salicylates include anything flavored with peppermint, spearmint, licorice or fruit flavors. Drinks with salicylates include beer, sherry, orange juice, apple cider, tea, instant coffee, wine and rum. Many spices and condiments also contain salicylates such as vinegar, soy sauce, cayenne, fish paste, dill, thyme and curry.
Reading Foods Labels
Since so many foods use these chemicals, you should familiarize yourself with ingredients that indicate the presence of salicylates. The Cleveland Clinic notes the following ingredients indicate salicylates: artificial flavors and colorings, benzoates, menthol, mint, peppermint, spearmint, sodium salicylate and magnesium salicylate.
Foods Low in Salicylates
Animal proteins like meat, fish, eggs and dairy contain low amounts of salicylates. Breads and cereals also have low amounts. This means you can probably safely eat these foods with no problems.
