Nutrition: Tomatoes & Solanine

Solanine, sometimes referred to as nightshades, is a type of naturally occurring poison that is found in some plants, such as potatoes and tomatoes. It can be found in both the leaves and fruit of plants and exhibits fungicidal and pesticidal properties, which can benefit the plant by protecting it against bacteria. Seek medical attention if you believe you are suffering from solanine poisoning; it can cause serious health effects.

Mechanism of Action

Once ingested, solanine interacts with the mitochondrial membranes of various cells throughout your body. Once inside your cells, solanine opens the potassium channels, which decreases their membrane potential and increases the amount of calcium that enters your cells. Too much calcium inside your body's cells causes an electrolyte imbalance that can cause cellular damage, according to a 2006 study in the "World Journal of Gastroenterology."

Effects

Solanine is a mild neurotoxin to humans that can have many adverse health effects when ingested. According to Dr. Brant Larsen of the Larsen Wellness Center, solanine poisoning can contribute to joint pain, joint inflammation, all forms of arthritis, calcium deposits in your joints, cramps, dizziness, diarrhea, sleepiness and a disrupted thyroid gland. Solanine poisoning may also cause osteoporosis, irritable bowel syndrome, appendicitis, depression, migraines and birth defects.

Birth Defects

If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor about eating foods that may contain solanine, especially tomatoes and potatoes, because of the increased risk of solanine poisoning and its effect on your fetus. Solanine can cause birth defects, such as spina bifida, during pregnancy. Spina bifida is a type of neural tube defect that causes nerve damage, including lower extremity paralysis, in infants as a result of the improper formation of nerve tissues, including the spinal cord.

Recommendations

According to licensed nutritionist Monica Reinagel, some people are more sensitive to solanine than others. If you begin to experience any of the symptoms associated with solanine toxicity after eating foods high in solanine, such as tomatoes potatoes, eggplants and peppers, stop consuming that food until you talk with your doctor to determine whether you are sensitive to solanine. To decrease the risk of birth defects related to solanine poisoning, avoid tomatoes and other solanine-containing foods during pregnancy.