Foods that Trigger Inflammation
By Sara Butler
Inflammation can be caused by a host of things. Some you have no control over, such as disease or injury. Yet some you do have control over, such as lifestyle choices. Yes, the food you eat and the amount of exercise you get can have an impact on inflammation. Here are a few foods you may want to give the old heave-ho to in order to get healthy and reduce chronic inflammation.
Why is Inflammation Bad?
Some inflammation is good for you. When you stub your toe on the couch and it becomes red, hot, and a little swollen – that’s your body’s way of trying to protect and heal itself. But chronic inflammation is a different story and it's far worse for your health and wellness.
Chronic inflammation has been linked to chronic health problems such as a higher risk for diabetes, stroke, heart disease, and cancer. That’s why you need to take steps in your life to reduce your risk of chronic inflammation. One way to do that is to eliminate a few foods from your diet that can trigger it!
Sugar
People get far too much sugar. It’s hard to avoid since it’s snuck into so many things – even bread! As your body digests sugar, it releases inflammatory signals called cytokines all over your body. So make sure you keep an eye on sugars in your foods. Anything that ends in “-ose,” such as fructose and sucralose, should be avoided. High fructose corn syrup is a big offender! Just make sure you read the ingredients list on the foods you eat and check for sugar content – just paying attention can make a difference.
Refined Carbohydrates
Highly refined carbohydrates are found mostly in highly processed foods and you know those are not good for your health! These foods contribute to obesity and chronic conditions since they stimulate the inflammation process in the body. Don’t forget that carbohydrates are an essential part of a healthy diet and you need them, but the type of carbs is what makes all the difference. Complex carbohydrates should be your aim and they can be found in whole grains and fruit.
Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Not to be confused with omega-3, too many omega-6 fatty acids are not good for you. Your body does need some as a necessary part of a balanced diet, but you need to keep an eye on how much you’re having. This fatty acid is found commonly in cooking oils, salad dressings, mayonnaise, and soy. Too much will promote inflammation in your body, so stick to 12 to 17 grams per day for men and 9 to 11 grams per day for women.
Food is about more than just fueling your body, it also impacts the way your body operates. You are what you eat!
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Fitchburg, Wis.