Nourish | Top 10 Inflammatory Foods in the Standard American Diet

The Standard American Diet (SAD) is often associated with chronic inflammation, which can contribute to various health issues.

Here are 10 common foods in the SAD that can exacerbate inflammation:

1. Refined Sugars

• Why: These sugars can lead to insulin resistance, a condition linked to inflammation.

• References:

  • Harvard Health Publishing: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-bitter-truth-about-added-sugar

2. Processed Foods

• Why: Often contain unhealthy additives, preservatives, and excessive amounts of unhealthy fats and sugars.

• References:

  • Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/9-diet-tips-to-help-you-fight-inflammation

3. Red Meat

• Why: Excessive consumption has been associated with inflammation.

• References:

  • Medical News Today: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9194089/

4. Fried Foods

• Why: High in unhealthy fats, which can contribute to inflammation.

• References:

  • Mayo Clinic: https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/forefront/gastrointestinal-articles/2020/september/what-foods-cause-or-reduce-inflammation

5. Trans Fats

• Why: Unhealthy fats that can increase inflammation.

• References:

  • WebMD: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3247279/

6. Alcohol

• Why: Excessive consumption can lead to inflammation in the liver and other organs.

• References:

  • National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism: https://www.verywellhealth.com/does-alcohol-cause-inflammation-8403645

7. Processed Grains

• Why: Refined grains can spike blood sugar levels, contributing to inflammation.

• References:

  • Healthline: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2821887/

8. Dairy Products

• Why: Some people may be sensitive to dairy products, leading to inflammation.

• References:

  • WebMD: https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/nutrition/healthy-eating/dairy-and-inflammation

9. Gluten

• Why: People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity may experience inflammation when consuming gluten.

• References:

  • Mayo Clinic: https://www.verywellhealth.com/does-gluten-cause-inflammation-8405056

10. Excessive Omega-6 Fats

• Why: While omega-6 fats are essential, consuming too much compared to omega-3 fats can contribute to inflammation.

• References:

  • Healthline: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-disease/expert-answers/omega-6/faq-20058172

Remember, these are general guidelines and individual responses to foods can vary. For personalized advice, grab your "Enlighten Package" today!

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