Inflammation is the body's defense mechanism to protect it from irritants or harmful cells. However, chronic inflammation can lead to additional conditions such as lupus, heart disease, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's's disease, arthritis and cancers. A nutrient-based diet based on naturally fresh foods may relieve inflammation symptoms, notes "Arthritis Today." A diet low in processed, refined and saturated foods may also decrease and prevent chronic inflammation and related diseases.
Red Meat
According to the University of California at San Diego School of Medicine, a correlation exists between chronic inflammation and red meat intake, which may lead to cancerous tissue growth. Red meat is also a saturated fat source, which increases the risk of heart disease, obesity and cancers when consumed in excess. Limit red meat and add more lean protein sources like poultry, low-fat dairy products, fish and legumes in its place. If you do consume red meat, keep your portion size modest and choose lean cuts.
Processed Carbohydrates
White-flour based food sources, such as cereals, breads, snack foods and pasta may increase inflammation. In a study, female type 2 diabetes sufferers who consumed whole grains on a regular basis, experienced less inflammation symptoms than those who consumed processed carbohydrates, according to the American Diabetes Association. Replace processed carbohydrates with brown rice, oats, bulgar and other whole grain food sources to prevent or decrease inflammation. Choose vegetables, fruits and whole-grain based snack items rather than pretzels or potato chips.
Simple Sugar
Simple sugar, such as corn syrup, brown sugar and cane sugar, may aggravate inflammation symptoms. Reduce or restrict your consumption of these foods, since most processed foods contain simple sugars. Choose colorful vegetables, fruits, desserts and sweetened snacks. Added sugar should not account for over 150 calories daily, reports the American Heart Association. However, sugars found naturally in dairy products, vegetables and fruits can stabilize inflammatory responses as they often do not contain inflammatory agents that are often added to simple sugar during chemical processing.
References
- University of California: How eating red meat can spur cancer progression
- Thomas Jefferson University: Therapeutic Diets in Clinical Practice: An Anti-Inflammatory Diet and Other Dietary Approaches
- American Diabetes Association: Whole grain fiber intake and diabetes
- American Heart Association: Sugars and Carbohydrates
- Arthritis Today: Rheumatoid Arthritis Diet: RA and Food Allergies
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