5 Foods to Avoid if You Have Inflammation

Inflammation is the body’s way of fighting off infection. When it is acute, the inflammation starts and ends quickly in a matter of days. But when it is chronic, it can last for months and cause harm to the body. Chronic inflammation can exacerbate a number of conditions, including arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, and asthma. It may even be the culprit of your chronic pain and joint swelling.

While certain medications can help control inflammation in the body, if you are looking for a drug-free approach, you may want to consider looking into alternative and holistic therapies. Keller chiropractor Dr. Doyle offers a variety of treatments, including acupuncture and chiropractic care.

In addition to these musculoskeletal treatments, Dr. Doyle also offers detoxification programs and nutritional therapies to help the body heal itself. It is quite possible that what you are putting into your body is causing greater harm than good. Dr. Doyle discusses certain foods to avoid when facing chronic inflammation and the anti-inflammatory foods to add in to combat it. To book your consultation, please contact our office online or call (817) 767-5430.

Sugar

Processed sugars are considered empty calories void of any nutritional value. They can also spike your blood sugar levels and trigger cytokines, inflammatory messengers known for suppressing white blood cells. Not only does this lead to increased inflammation and weight gain, but you may find yourself more prone to sickness. Try sweetening your foods with natural foods, such as honey and maple syrup.

Vegetable Oils

Vegetable oils, such as soy, corn, safflower, sunflower, and palm oil, are high in omega-6 (inflammatory fat) and low in omega-3 (anti-inflammatory fat). Before eating out at your favorite restaurant, be sure and take a look at what your food is being cooked in. At home, stock your pantry with healthier oils, such as coconut oil, avocado oil, or extra virgin olive oil.

Refined Carbohydrates

White flour, white rice, and gluten have all been linked to increased inflammation. Take a look in your pantry. Do you have processed cereals, chips, or crackers inside? Do you frequently opt for fries instead of salad? By making a few tweaks in your daily routine, you can lower the inflammation in your body. Instead of eating a bowl of cereal for breakfast, try eating scrambled eggs and a side of berries. Swap those fries for a salad at lunch, and grab an apple the next time you get hit with the afternoon cravings.

Dairy

Dairy can disrupt your gut microbiome, decrease the healthy bacteria, and increase inflammation in the body. A healthy guy is needed for controlling inflammation in the body. Dairy is also a common allergen. Research has shown that roughly one in four adults have difficulty digesting it. If you notice increased asthma symptoms, bloating, gas, or stomach pains after eating cheese or drinking milk, you may want to consider eliminating it from your diet for a few weeks to see if it is the source of your problems. Try adding in goat’s milk, coconut milk, or plain Greek yogurt instead.

Alcohol

Frequent consumption of alcohol has been associated with cancer, heart disease, stroke, and digestive issues. It can also cause inflammation in your gut, joints, tissues, liver, and blood vessels. But good news: one to two glasses of organic red wine a day has been known to help improve inflammation. However, if you notice heightened symptoms after consuming it, best to avoid it all together.

Meet With Keller Chiropractor Dr. Doyle

If you are looking for a holistic and drug-free approach to maintaining a healthier lifestyle, we encourage you to set up a consultation with Keller chiropractor Dr. Doyle. You can contact our office online or by calling (817) 767-5430.