Foods That Cause Inflammation

Research indicates that people with such diseases may have higher levels of inflammatory markers in their bodies. Although many factors are involved in inflammation, certain foods may either increase or decrease the symptoms.

This article looks at foods that may worsen symptoms. It also discusses inflammation and its effect on health. Finally, it looks at anti-inflammatory foods, including vegetables and fruit, and anti-inflammatory diets such as the DASH and Mediterranean diets. Many foods may worsen the symptoms of inflammation. Such foods include sugar, trans fats, refined carbohydrates, and red or processed meats.

Sugar

A diet high in sugar may affect chronic inflammation by increasing inflammatory markers in the blood, according to a 2018 systematic review of several studies.

In addition, excessive sugar consumption may increase inflammatory markers in children and lead to chronic inflammation, according to a 2018 study. The study compared a daily sugar reduction of 46% with an 11% reduction of proinflammatory markers in 11 children. The researchers suggest that a reduction in the amount of sugar-sweetened drinks consumed during childhood may result in future health benefits.

Another 2018 article suggests that fructose might cause cell inflammation. Excess fructose may also increase fat around the abdominal organs and increase the amount of fat in the liver.

Trans Fats

Trans fats may increase inflammatory markers and the risk of chronic inflammation, which can lead to diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Trans fats may also raise the levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) while reducing high-density lipoproteins (HDL), a combination that may increase the risk of heart disease.

Although beef and dairy products contain small amounts of naturally occurring trans fats, most trans fats occur when manufacturers add hydrogen to vegetable oil. Trans fats may appear on labels as hydrogenated oil and can be in processed foods, baked goods, fried foods, and margarine.

Omega 6 Fatty Acids

The body needs a certain amount of omega 6 fatty acids for healthy growth and development. However, excessive amounts of omega 6 fatty acids can cause the body to create pro-inflammatory chemicals.

Mayonnaise and salad dressings often have omega 6 fatty acids. Some oils such as corn, safflower, sunflower, and peanut oil can also contain the substance.

Refined Carbohydrates

Refined carbohydrates have a high-glycemic index, which can increase a type of protein called advanced glycation end (AGE) products, which may increase inflammation.

Refined carbohydrates include white flour products such as:

  • white bread and rolls
  • some crackers
  • white rice
  • some cereals

Red and Processed Meat

Red and processed meats are high in saturated fats, which can cause inflammation in fat tissue.

A 2016 study suggests red and processed meat is linked with an increased inflammatory response in the body and may increase the risk of colon cancer.

What is inflammation?

There are two main types of inflammation, acute and chronic.

Acute inflammation is a quick response from the body to injury or infection, which increases blood flow to the affected area. White blood cells help rebuild damaged tissue, and acute inflammation generally stops when the wound heals.

Chronic inflammation is a long-term condition that can develop gradually over months and years. Causes of chronic inflammation can include:

  • Prolonged infection
  • Exposure to toxic chemicals
  • Autoimmune disorders
  • Autoinflammatory disorders
  • Repeated cases of acute inflammation
  • Oxidative stress in the body

Risk factors for chronic inflammation include:

  • Older age
  • Obesity
  • Smoking
  • Low levels of testosterone and estrogen
  • Physical and emotional stress
  • Sleep disorders

Processed foods, saturated fats, trans-fats, and refined sugar can increase the risk of pro-inflammatory molecules. This may especially be the case if a person is overweight or has diabetes.

How can inflammation affect health?

According to the National Cancer Institute, inflammation can create DNA damage that may lead to cancer. Chronic inflammation is also linked with inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, which may increase the risk of colon cancer.

Inflammation is commonly present in people with heart disease and stroke and may have a link to plaques forming in the arteries.

Other inflammatory conditions include:

  • Diabetes
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
  • Autoimmune conditions, such as lupus
  • Neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease
  • Arthritis and joint conditions
  • Allergies and asthma
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Original article by Medical News Today.