One of the most controversial wellness topics we’ve covered in the past few years has been the lectin-free diet. Lectins became a huge topic of discussion after we shared our live interview with Dr. Gundry and read his best-selling book The Plant Paradox in 2017. Since Dr Gundry’s first book published, we’ve seen a growing number of wellness pros refer to lectin-avoidance and many new products launched that are labeled ‘lectin-free’.

In his book, Dr Gundy identifies lectins as a class of plant proteins that our bodies do not tolerate well (read our interview with Dr. Gundry in full here). Lectins are in everything from tomatoes and peppers to brown rice and quinoa. Dr. Gundry’s claims that removing them our diets could solve for many modern health woes had many of us ready for a lectin-free lifestyle. It also left us with the burning question: what the heck can we eat now?

Gundry’s cookbook, The Plant Paradox Cookbook, promised to answer that question and more. Here are some foods we found in the book we thought were interesting. We didn’t expect to find a few of these classic indulgences on such a restrictive diet and the last five foods might be brand new discoveries for many..

Mozzarella + Parmesan Dr. Gundry is very specific about which dairy products are allowed. Lo and behold, two the most important(?) cheeses are lectin-free. Source from the correct animals and geography and you’re set. (See The Plant Paradox for details.)

Steak + other meats Yes, steak…but it must be grass-fed and grass-finished to be free of the lectins that come from a grain-filled animal’s diet.

Eggs Eggs too are included in the lectin-free way of life, but must be pasture-raised. Notice a pattern here? Like most all-natural diets, the lectin-free diet involves some very savvy shopping skills to properly enjoy meat, eggs and dairy.

champagne That’s right, on special occasions, Dr Gundry says a glass of bubbles (or red wines from Oregon and South America) is best. The lectin-free diet is sounding better and better!

coconut cream  Dairy-free dieters, meet your new obsession. If you’ve not already discovered coconut cream, now it your chance to try. Whip it to replace whipped cream, pour it in recipes to replace heavy cream for dense nutrition and creamy texture.

algae oil Algae oil has becoming a popular cooking oil in the wellness world lately for it’s superior nutritional benefits. It’s rich in the omega-3 fat, DHA.

hemp tofu Hemp is an incredible source of protein, clean fats and minerals. If you’re avoiding soy, but love tofu – try hemp instead.

monk fruit There are a slew of great sweeteners without sugar on the market know. Just be sure they’re chemical free and – if you’re going lectin-free, go with monk fruit. Also sold granulated in tiny packets just like sugar.

brazilian cheesy bread We love this grain-free treat from Dr. Gundry’s new cookbook. Get the recipe here.