Much like a finely tuned car that requires fresh oil, gas in the tank, belts, spark plugs, and air in the tires in order to go, the human body also requires all of its working parts to remain healthy, otherwise it will break down. Inflammation within the body can be the equivalent of pouring salt into the engine of your car--it will run, but not well, and maybe not for long. When chronic inflammation occurs, free radicals take over and eventually damage DNA. Left untreated, chronic inflammation can lead to a plethora of diseases, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis and even osteoporosis. The typical American diet is one of the main culprits in chronic inflammation.
The Inflammation-Nutrition Connection
Foods that are over-processed, devoid of nutrients and full of chemicals and sugars are to blame for many of our health problems today, including some cancers. In fact, it is believed that approximately 70,000 of breast cancer cases each year could be prevented through healthier lifestyle habits, including eating better. Among the most common dietary culprits are sugar and refined flour, and American diets are chock full of these inflammation-causing foods. From cookies and cakes to soda and breakfast cereals, the typical American consumes more than 160 pounds of sugar per year, and roughly 200 pounds of white flour.
Sugar
Foods that convert into sugar quickly in the body have the potential to raise the level of blood sugar. In response to the rapid rise in blood sugar, the pancreas quickly releases insulin. Chronic and excessive overproduction of insulin can, over time, reduce the ability of the beta-cells in the pancreas to effectively release insulin, increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Blood vessels can become damaged because of too much insulin, leading to a host of conditions, including kidney disease, cardiovascular disease and nerve damage.
High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS)
High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is used as a sweetener in most commercially produced snack foods. Consumed frequently and in large quantities, HFCS may lead to diseases such as type 2 diabetes, gallbladder disease, obesity and cardiovascular disease.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Americans consume roughly 20 percent more "added" sugar per day than they did 20 years ago. This statistic does not even include the naturally occurring sugars in fruits, vegetables and most dairy products. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends no more than 6 tsp. of sugar per every 1,600 calories consumed. Most Americans consume 20 tsp. per day.
Refined grains
Refined grains are grains that have the bran and germ removed during processing. As a result, the nutrients that are in the bran and germ layers are also removed. Because the amount of fiber in refined grains is minimal compared to its original state, it is broken down quickly within the digestive system, causing a rapid increase in blood sugar. Sometimes referred to as "high glycemic" foods, refined grains reduce the body's sensitivity to insulin, causing "insulin resistance," which is known to contribute to excess weight gain and type 2 diabetes.
High consumption of refined grains is also believed to trigger excess production of pro-inflammatory regulatory proteins, throwing off the balance between the pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory proteins. The body responds to this imbalance by activating its immune system, and inflammation soon develops.
Dairy
Though rich in calcium, the casein in dairy products can trigger auto-immune disease, asthma and bronchitis, according to the University of Michigan Department of Integrative Medicine. Milk casein is a protein found in most dairy products that has a tendency to irritate the body's immune system. Researchers believe that when dairy cows consume a diet high in grain, they produce large amounts of omega-6 fats. Consuming too much dairy can create an imbalance between the anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats and inflammation-causing omega-6 fats, triggering an inflammatory response. In addition, it is believed that up to 50 percent of the population is allergic to dairy. Consuming dairy products when a dairy allergy is present can also lead to chronic inflammation.
