FOOD & CHRONIC INFLAMMATION
There are many dietary habits that can increase the likelihood of chronic inflammation. Foremost among them is eating the Standard American Diet (SAD). Eating this type of diet on a daily basis can create a chronic low level of inflammation: White flour foods- high in sugar, low in nutrients, especially the B vitamins, trans fats-found in fried foods; hydrogenated oils increase arachidonic acid which causes inflammation.
Packaged foods-low in nutrients and high in chemicals. Our bodies must break down and clear the chemicals. Many can’t be cleared and can cause a chronic inflammatory response by the immune system to try to clear them.
Cow’s dairy-full of pesticides, hormones and antibiotics. It is also high in sugar and produces an acidic, inflammatory state in the body. Celiac disease and/or non-celiac gluten sensitivity-Wheat, rye, barley, spelt, and kamut are highly inflammatory and allergenic foods. Conventionally grown or raised foods-vegetables, fruits, dairy, meat, eggs, fish (certain types), nuts, seeds, legumes, grains are all laden with pesticides and other chemicals.
Little to no fresh fruits and vegetables which are needed for their vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Low Omega-3 fatty acids which act to abate inflammation. (Increase Omega-3 content with fatty, ocean-caught fish such as salmon, halibut or cod.)
High fructose corn syrup-can increase fat deposition and free radicals which, in turn, cause inflammation.
With this type of diet, it’s no wonder this country is suffering from declining health.
