Inflammation – Health and Nutrition
Inflammation and Illness
We recognize inflammation as redness, heat, swelling and pain. It is a natural healing response to bring nourishment and immunity to an injury or infection. When the inflammation serves no purpose and refuses to go away, it causes illness.
Some of the things that contribute to inflammation include:
- stress
- lack of exercise
- dietary choices
- genetics and exposure to toxins (like secondhand tobacco smoke, prescription drugs like steroids and NSAID’s and metals)
Learning how to adjust dietary choices is one of the best ways to deal with chronic inflammation.
There is a blood test that detects inflammation, talk to your doctor and have them check your CRP or C-reactive protein. It is a protein that is found in the blood and is the major red flag for inflammation.
Inflammatory Foods
- Sugar – Sugar is in many processed foods and we don’t even realize it
- Cooking Oils – Corn, cottonseed, safflower, soy, sunflower
- Trans Fats – Check all labels and NEVER eat trans fats
- Dairy – Milk is a common allergen that can trigger inflammation, stomach problems, skin rashes, hives and even breathing difficulties
- Feedlot-Raised Meat – Animals are fed the foods that cause inflammation for us. They are also given hormones and antibiotics
- Red and Processed Meat – We develop antibodies that cause inflammation
- Alcohol – Regular alcohol consumption creates irritation and inflammation in numerous organs, which can lead to cancer
- Refined Grains – Refined products have no fiber and have a high glycemic index. These include white rice, flour, bread, and pasta
- Artificial Food Additives – Aspartame and MSG
- Allergens – Any food that you are allergic to and eat anyway
Anti-inflammatory Foods
- Blueberries
- Chocolate (dark, uncooked)
- Cruciferous Vegetables
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Green Tea
- Kelp
- Sweet Potato
- Turmeric
- Watercress
- Wild Alaskan Salmon
Obesity and Inflammation
Acute and Chronic Inflammation
Chronic Inflammation isn’t so easy to locate and lasts longer. Some symptoms include being tired, depression, headaches, stomach problems, aches and pains, and/or foggy thinking.
Healthy Habits
- Eat for health
- Be active, get outdoor exercise
- Don’t smoke
- Avoid excess alcohol
- Manage Stress
- Develop good sleep habits
It’s amazing how many lifestyle changes affect our health. Small changes can offer big rewards.
More Resources
Still Have Questions or Need Help?
We’re happy to answer any questions you have and help you make the best decision for you.
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