These 5 Common Foods Can Cause Inflammation

Of the 10 leading causes of death, eight of them have been linked to the same underlying cause: inflammation, a chronically on-high-alert immune system response. What’s more, certain types of foods can trigger it more than others.

“Inflammation is not a state that can be induced by one meal or snack,” says Jaclyn London, MS, RD, CDN, Nutrition Director at the Good Housekeeping Institute. “But over time, these foods comprise a dietary pattern that can lead to oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, which impact various organ systems by impeding blood flow overall.”

Some especially bad offenders include the overly processed, fried, or sugary treats you’re already minimizing in your diet, and for good reason. Inflammation correlates with a number of different health conditions. “Long-term, low-grade inflammation can persist in all of our cells and tissues, playing a key role in everything from acne to arthritis,” says Dr. Corey W. Kirshner.

Help prevent inflammation by cutting down on these top foods that trigger it.

Processed meat

This includes hot dogs, ham, bacon, sausage and other meats that have undergone salting, curing, or smoking. “These meats are a five-alarm fire when it comes to inflammation,” says Kirshner, in his book The Whole Body Cure. In addition to spiking inflammation, these foods have also been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer.

Red meat

Uncured red meat — such as steak or burgers — is less harmful to your health than processed meat, especially if you purchase the certain varieties, says Kirshner. He recommends choosing grass-fed, organic varieties, which contain fewer pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals.

Sweetened foods

Sugary cereals and other treats can raise blood glucose levels, which can lead to a spike in inflammation. “The effect is more pronounced in people who have any form of glucose intolerance,” says Kirshner. Choose whole foods that are free from added sugar, such as whole apples instead of flavored applesauce.

White flour

Refined carbohydrates — including the white flour that forms the base of white bread and white pasta — have been stripped of their nutrients and fiber. Foods made with white flour are usually also high in sugar. Instead, look for high-fiber, 100% whole-grain options.

Battered, deep-fried foods

These breaded foods basically get covered in a layer of refined carbs, London says, and they’re also high in saturated fat and excess calories. “You’d be better off sautéing, grilling, steaming, poaching, roasting, or pan-frying,” she advises.

Facebook
Twitter
WhatsApp
Pinterest
Reddit
LinkedIn
Facebook
Twitter
WhatsApp

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

READ NEXT

8 Foods to Eat When You Have a Cold

A common cold is an upper respiratory tract infection which is caused by different viruses. This cold is transmitted by infected airborne droplets or by direct contact with infected secretions.

How Blood Sugar Levels Affect Your Health

Understanding blood glucose level ranges can be a key part of diabetes self-management. When you have diabetes, your blood sugar (aka blood glucose) levels may be consistently high. Over time,

6 Reasons Why You’re Over-Sweating After 40

As we already know, sweating happens after making physical efforts, being stressed or standing in the heat – but why does it happen after 40 years old? Well, menopause can

5 Unexpected Benefits of Drinking Hot Water

Recent research revealed that drinking hot water on an empty stomach provides numerous health benefits. Lemon-infused water, for example, reduces free radicals and helps different organs function properly. Studies say

10 Things About Depression Only Psychologists Know

Depression is a mental illness characterized by frequent states of sadness, lack of appetite, feeling guilty all the time, and other symptoms like these. We debunk the myths and misinformation about

10 Vaccine Myths You Should Completely Ignore

Unfortunately, even when a large number of studies have found no evidence to support the argument that vaccines can cause autism and other chronic illnesses, many parents are simply refusing

15 Signs of Diabetes to Watch Out For

While diabetes is manageable, it can shorten your life considerably. It can also up your risk of things like blindness, heart attack, and even loss of a foot. Check out

These Factors Are Associated With Dementia Risk

Modifiable risk factors can be addressed through the means of early intervention to reduce chances of developing dementia during old age. By studying data from the Framingham Heart Study (FHS),

10 Ways to Keep Your Body in Good Shape After 50

It’s never too late to start focusing on yourself. In fact, your 50s are the perfect time to prioritize your fitness. Because now that you’re older, working out isn’t just

6 Subtle Signs You Could Have PTSD

When looking at the various ways people attempt to cope with exposure to one or a series of traumatic events, it’s important to recognize the ways that they may manifest,

Early Symptoms of a Heart Attack You Should Know

The sooner you get help for a heart attack, the better your chances for a complete recovery. Unfortunately, many people hesitate to get help, even if they suspect there’s something

5 Alternative Sources of Protein You Should Try

Proteins are building blocks for your body—they help make and repair your bones, organs, muscles and blood. But it’s important to know the right type protein to get its health

Scroll to Top