Foods that Cause Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is one of the primary causes of pain. When tissues become irritated because of toxins, injury or infection; inflammation can occur. Inflammation symptoms include stiffness, swelling, limited range of motion, redness, heat and pain. Chronic inflammation can be caused by autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus or Crohn’s disease. Additionally, chronic inflammation is a contributing factor to a plethora of illnesses including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease. For this reason, it is essential that you learn about foods that cause inflammation and pain to help protect yourself against chronic illnesses.

Foods that Cause Inflammation 

Food sensitivities and food allergies can trigger an immune response in the body. When the immune system is activated, inflammation can occur. There are several blood tests that can check for food sensitivities. Furthermore, certain foods contain toxins and other naturally occurring compounds that can cause inflammation.

Dairy Products

Dairy products contain lactose which can cause inflammation due to food sensitivities. Furthermore, dairy products contain casein, which is a protein that can cause inflammation.

Eggs

Eggs are another common food that causes food sensitivities and food allergies. You may be allergic to the egg yolk, the egg white or both parts of the egg.

Legumes

Certain legumes contain toxins called aflatoxins. Cooking destroys this toxin; however, if the legumes are not fully cooked, some of the toxins can remain and cause an inflammatory response.

Grains with Gluten

Gluten is a protein found in wheat which can be difficult to digest and cause sensitivity in many people, resulting in inflammation.

Refined Sugars

According to the Arthritis Foundation, processed sugars can trigger the release of cytokines, which can cause an inflammatory response. In addition to this, certain individuals have sensitivity to fructose, which can cause inflammation.

Saturated Fats and Trans Fats

Saturated fat can cause inflammation in the fatty tissues of the body, resulting in inflammation and pain throughout the body. Trans fats have been shown to cause systemic inflammation in the body.

Nightshade Vegetables

Nightshade vegetables (potatoes, eggplants and tomatoes) contain a naturally occurring toxin called solanine. This toxin can cause inflammation and pain.

Inflammation is the body’s immune response to illness, toxins and disease. Without the inflammatory response, the body cannot heal itself; however, when inflammation gets out of control it can damage the body and lead to chronic disease. Foods, such as refined sugars and saturated fats, over activate the immune system and cause inflammation and pain. Avoiding these inflammatory foods and choosing anti-inflammatory foods can help decrease inflammation and pain naturally.