What Are the Common Foods that Cause Inflammation?

Inflammation is the natural response of your body's immune system when it detects a foreign particle, be it a disease-causing microbe, a chemical, or even a simple cut. It occurs when the body dispatches White Blood Cells (WBCs) to the affected site to combat and eliminate the foreign particle.Simply put, inflammation is a side-effect of your body's attempt to defend itself. The symptoms of acute inflammation can include:

• Swelling and pain in the affected area
• Higher localized temperature
• Rashes
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Joint pain and stiffness

Food can also cause inflammations, especially if you accidentally eat or drink something you are allergic to.Here are some foods that cause inflammation. Please note that you can also have an inflammatory reaction by consuming items not included in this list. This list is just an example of the most common inflammation-causing foods.

1. Sugar and high-fructose corn syrup

Table sugar and high-fructose corn syrup are a part of many of our regular diets. Table sugar contains high quantities of Glucose (50%) and Fructose (50%), both of which can cause and aggravate severe inflammatory reactions.Several studies indicate the correlation between high dietary sugar and increased chronic inflammation. Eating a lot of table sugar or fructose also increases the chances of chronic kidney disease and fatty liver.Also read: How Long Food Poisoning Lasts and How to Prevent It

2. Refined carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are a staple in our regular diet. It is found in bread, pasta, cake, and certain soft drinks. However, studies indicate refined carbohydrates are not very healthy for our bodies. This type of carb is devoid of its fiber content which helps to keep the blood sugar in check. Studies confirm high levels of refined carbs can increase the number of unhealthy gut bacteria. This not only causes inflammation but also contributes to obesity.

3. Trans fats

Trans fatty acids are unsaturated fat, and they can be both natural and artificial. Industrial trans fats are used to increase the shelf life of food items, but it is hazardous to human health. In fact, they are considered to be one of the unhealthiest forms of edible fats.Daily consumption of packaged food has become very common, and most of this food has high quantities of trans fats. They cause an increase in inflammatory markers, as seen in this study.

4. Vegetable oils and seed oils

Often used in good quantity in salad dressings and even present in ice creams, consuming high content of vegetable oil, soy, or corn oil can increase Omega 6, which can conversely trigger an inflammatory response in your body. When possible, use coconut oil, olive oil, grapeseed oil for cooking.Also read: Everything You Should Know about Metabolic Syndrome and its Causes

5. Dairy products

It might come as a surprise to you, but full-fat dairy products high in saturated fat can cause inflammation! Milk containing casein or whey can cause several inflammatory reactions such as abdominal cramps, coughing, swelling. Choose non-dairy milk options, and plant-based cheese and yogurt can help lower inflammation.However, remember that if you or a family member are experiencing severe symptoms of inflammation, you should get medical help immediately. MI Express Urgent Care can assess your symptoms and determine the cause of inflammation. Contact our medical team today!