Inflammation is the body’s primary response to injuries, toxins and infection. It is a sign that the body is trying to heal itself, and it typically disappears within a few days.

But chronic inflammation might point to underlying conditions like arthritis and asthma. If so, take a good look at the foods that you eat. Certain foods can worsen inflammation and heighten the risk of chronic conditions including obesity, heart disease and Type 2 diabetes.

Avoid the following eight foods that cause inflammation.

Refined grains

Grains that have been stripped of the bran and germ no longer contain important nutrients. Processed or refined grains only have “empty” calories that do not aid energy production. Instead, empty calories are quickly converted into sugar. As glucose levels rise, inflammation also spikes. Avoid refined grains like white flour, white rice, instant oatmeal and refined breakfast cereals.

Fried foods

Deep-fried foods contain high levels of saturated fat that can severely trigger inflammation of the arteries. Excess saturated fat also causes cholesterol buildup along the arteries, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Saturated fat can also worsen joint pain caused by arthritis.

Omega-6 fatty acids

Like omega-3, omega-6 fatty acids are essential fats that support the body. In particular, omega-6 primarily aids energy production. But the key to the benefits of fatty acids is moderate consumption. High levels of omega-6 can trigger the body to produce pro-inflammatory chemicals. Limit the consumption of foods like sunflower seeds, peanuts and pumpkin seeds.

Refined sugar

Donuts, candies and breakfast cereals contain refined sugars that increase glucose levels, cause chronic inflammation and impair insulin production. Regular consumption of sugary foods can drastically heighten the risk of chronic conditions like Type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Soda

Readily available drinks like soda, energy drinks and commercially processed fruit juices contain aspartame, a non-nutritive artificial sweetener that triggers chronic inflammation. Processed drinks also contain refined sugars that raise glucose levels.

Processed meat

Meats that have been cured, salted and smoked are fast-acting triggers of chronic inflammation. Processed meats like bacon, ham, sausages and hotdogs are also chock-full of saturated fat that not only worsen inflammation, but also increase the risk of obesity, heart attack and colorectal cancer.

Canned soup

Canned soup products have high levels of monosodium glutamate (MSG), a flavor-enhancing food additive that can trigger chronic inflammation. MSG is often added to canned soup to make up for the loss of flavor over time as the can sits on the shelf. However, foods that contain MSG are known to heighten the risk of obesity and trigger inflammation of the liver.

Alcohol

Excess consumption of alcohol can cause inflammation of the liver and increase the risk of alcoholic fatty liver disease. Alcohol can also affect brain functions, increase blood pressure and heighten the risk of metabolic disorders.

People who experience frequent or chronic inflammation should take a hard look at food choices. Often, the foods we consume have a significant impact on overall health and well-being. While that is true for nutrient-dense foods, the same can be said for unhealthy foods that contain high amounts of empty calories and refined sugar.

If you want to prevent chronic inflammation, you can start by avoiding the listed foods. Instead, opt for nutrient-dense anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, leafy greens and whole grains to prevent inflammatory diseases like arthritis, asthma and hepatitis.

Sources:

TheHealthy.com

Healthline.com