Top 6 Inflammatory Foods to Avoid

Today, on Redhead Mom, I’m sharing a partnered guest. post about the Top 6 Inflammatory Foods to Avoid.

Statistics from the World Health Organization have found that in 2004, over twelve million people around the world died from some form of cardiovascular disease. Along with this, World Cancer Research Fund estimates that each year around eight million people die from cancer. Cancer and heart disease are two of the deadliest diseases in the world today, and chronic inflammation is one of the biggest risk factors. Several studies have found that the risk of cancer and heart disease can be lowered or raised by our lifestyle choices, including the foods that we eat daily. Here are some inflammatory foods that you should avoid for your health. 

Sugars

Excessive sugar intake can damage your health in many ways. It has been linked to increased obesity risks, chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome, tooth decay, and inflammation. Many sources of sugar such as soft drinks, punches and fruit juices are often overlooked. If you’re checking ingredients, bear in mind that sugar often comes under many different names including dextrose, corn syrup, maltose, fructose, and golden syrup. You can stick to this AIP meal plan to get your sugar intake under control. 

Dairy Products

Around sixty percent of the population around the world is unable to digest milk. And researchers believe that being unable to digest milk after infancy is actually quite normal for humans. Along with this, milk is a common allergen that can often trigger inflammatory responses in the body like skin rashes, stomach distress, acne, constipation, hives, diarrhea and even breathing problems. 

Red and Processed Meat

At the University of California San Diego School of Medicine, researchers found that red meat contains the Neu5Gc molecule, which is not naturally produced in the human body. Once this compound is digested, the body develops antibodies – an immune response that may trigger inflammation. Along with avoiding red meat, it’s also a good idea to avoid processed meat as the link between the consumption of processed meat and developing cancer is even stronger. In 2007, a report found that processed meat can cause various cancers including cancers of the rectum and colon, and the lungs and esophagus. 

Refined Grains

Many of the grains that we eat today are refined, which leaves them lacking in vitamin B and fiber compared to unrefined grains. Because of this, refined grains are quite similar to refined sugars in terms of our health. Refined grains have a higher glycemic index in comparison to unprocessed grains, and can increase the risk of diabetes, coronary heart disease, and cancer when consumed consistently. There are lots of common products that are made with refined grains including white flour, noodles, white rice, pasta, pastries and more. 

Alcohol

Regular, high alcohol consumption has been linked to inflammation and irritation of the liver, esophagus, and the larynx. Over time, alcohol consumption can lead to chronic inflammation which promotes the growth of tumors and increases the risk of cancer. Click here to find out what is alcoholics nose.

If you’re interested in learning more about the consequences of alcohol abuse, you can find more information by visiting sites like Moving Mountains Recovery.

Cooking Oils

Some common vegetable cooking oils that are often used in homes and restaurants are very high in omega-6 fatty acids and low in omega-3 fatty acids. When your diet has an imbalance in these two, it can promote inflammation and lead to a higher risk of inflammatory diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Oils to avoid include sunflower, safflower, cottonseed, grape seed, and corn oils. More balanced oils to use instead include macadamia oil or extra virgin olive oil. 

Chronic inflammation in the body can be caused by our diets and is one of the most common causes of serious diseases such as cancer and heart disease. To reduce your risk, avoid or reduce these foods in your diet.