NUTRITION: Inflammation could be the Answer?

“They Say…” The foods we eat or the liquids we drink could be causing inflammation in our bodies which could be causing disease, fatigue, irritability, anxiety, depression, arthritis, digestive issues and more!  Let’s dig in and see what we find!


What is Inflammation?
Inflammation is our immune systems reaction to an irritation, allergens, or infection. Inflammation is commonly related to swelling, redness or pain in or outside the body! Some inflammation in our body is healthy and protects the body from infection or injury... But chronic inflammation can be downright awful and painful! Recent research has shown that the foods we eat can directly correlate with this. Being overweight can be a tell-tale sign of inflammation!  YIKES!

Why do these have to be so adorable?! :(

What Nutrition and Foods Can Cause Inflammation?
* Processed Foods (contain preservatives such as MSG, artificial colors and flavors, chemicals, etc.)
* Refined Sugar (also high glycemic foods: soda, candy)
* Fried Foods
* Foods containing hydrogenated oil or partially hydrogenated oil
* Breads (Carbohydrates, white flour, gluten)
* Margarine
* Diets lacking in protein and fiber
* Alcoholic Beverages such as beers
* White Rice
* Dairy (possibly)
* Bacon, Pork
* Tomatoes
* Eggplants
* Cayenne
* Paprika
* Peppers
* White potatoes

Yum!  Fresh Cherries!

What Nutrition and Foods Can Help with Inflammation?
* Omega Fatty Acids (found in fish and fish oil, seeds such as flax, and supplements)
* Flax Seed
* Protein
* Fiber
* Tart Cherries (can reduce inflammation 10x better than asprin!)
* Soaked Walnuts
* Onion
* Garlic
* Pineapple
* Spinach
* Ginger
* Tumeric
* Broccoli
* Cabbage
* Artichokes
* Pistachios
Also, cut out smoking, start exercising, and get plenty of sleep! :)


And water is also a great idea to help flush your body out if you’ve eaten bad food! If you’re feel bad or sluggish try cutting out the inflammatory foods and see how you feel! We have both seriously cut out refined sugar and most restaurant foods and we have noticed that when we go back we feel absolutely awful! It’s very interesting! Try it for yourself!


Who are “They?”
http://www.womentowomen.com/inflammation/causes.aspx
http://www.aboutinflammation.com/foodsthatcauseinflammation.html
http://www.metabolismadvice.com/anti_inflammatory_food/
http://bodyecology.com/articles/top_ten_foods_that_prevent_inflammation.php
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2008/12/06/6-ways-to-reduce-inflammation-without-a-statin-drug.aspx

Disclaimer: Katy and Katie are not physicians or nutritionists and do not personally endorse any person’s opinions stated on our blog.  Please always consult a physician before embarking on diet changes, medicine changes, taking supplements/vitamins, or starting a fitness routine.  And please research for yourself so that you can make your own opinions and conclusions based on the information you find so you can make the best decision for you!  God Bless and Good Health!  Thank you! -K&K