Did you know that 8 of the 10 leading causes of death are linked to inflammation of the immune system? Known as a chronically on-high-alert immune system response, inflammation is largely triggered by the foods you eat over time. While inflammation won’t occur after one meal or snack, habitually eating unhealthy foods can lead to a permanent state of inflammation, which impacts overall blood flow. If you’d like to reduce your risk of inflammation, be sure to avoid these foods.
Processed Meats
Processed meats – like hot dogs, ham, bacon, and sausage – may be tasty, but they spell disaster if you’re looking to reduce inflammation or follow an anti-inflammatory diet. That’s because the salting, curing, or smoking process that these meats undergo is hard on your body, spiking inflammation. Not to mention, these foods have also been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer.
Alcohol
Sure, you know that alcohol isn’t good for you – but did you know that it also causes inflammation? If you often indulge in alcoholic beverages, you can experience a disruption in gut bacteria, a change in brain structure and function, raised blood pressure, and an increased risk of stroke, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Stick to no more than two daily drinks for men or one daily drink for women.
White Flour
Though products made from white flour, like pasta and bread, are tasty, you should know that these refined carbohydrates have been stripped of their nutrients and fiber, making them little more than a vehicle for inflammation. Plus, foods made with white flour are usually also high in sugar. Instead, look for high-fiber, 100% whole-grain options.
Soda
Bad news for soda drinkers: these beverages are not only packed with sugar but also include sodium benzoate, a preservative that may impair motor function and increase anxiety. Diet soft drinks are no better, as artificial sweeteners such as saccharine and sucralose may raise the risk for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Reach for carbonated water instead.
Improve your daily life with help from Vail Village Club Apartments in Dallas, Texas. By passing along this information, we hope to provide you with all that you need to live your life to the fullest.