Systemic Inflammation: Diet and Nutrition

Project Chiro Chiropractic Chiropractor Health and Wellness Fitness Acupuncture

March 12, 2023

By Dr. Chris Weilandich, DC, LAT

Inflammation is a natural and vital part of the immune system’s response to protect the body from infections, injuries, and other harmful stimuli. However, chronic systemic inflammation is a condition that occurs when the immune system releases chemicals called cytokines, which can lead to long-term damage to the body’s tissues and organs. Systemic inflammation is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It has been linked to various diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune disorders.

While there are many different treatments available for systemic inflammation, a growing body of recent research suggests that diet and nutrition can play a crucial role as a powerful tool to reduce inflammation in the body and improve overall health outcomes. By avoiding certain foods that can trigger inflammation and incorporating foods that can reduce inflammation, individuals can take an active role in managing their systemic inflammation and reducing their risk of developing chronic health problems.

Inflammatory Diet

An inflammatory diet is a diet that includes foods that can promote inflammation in the body. This type of diet typically includes highly processed foods, refined carbohydrates, sugary drinks, and foods high in saturated and trans fats. An inflammatory diet has been linked to an increased risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

These foods include highly processed foods, fried foods, and refined carbohydrates. Highly processed foods are often high in refined sugars, high-fructose corn syrup, and artificial additives can lead to insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Fried foods, especially those cooked in unhealthy oils, can also contribute to inflammation. Refined carbohydrates in white bread, white rice, and pasta can also lead to inflammation in the body.

Furthermore, foods high in saturated and trans fats have been shown to increase inflammation in the body. These fats can activate the immune system and cause an inflammatory response. Examples of foods high in saturated and trans fats include red meat, processed meat, and high-fat dairy products.

In addition, foods that cause an allergic or sensitivity response can also trigger inflammation. For example, some people may be sensitive to gluten, which is found in wheat, barley, and rye. Consuming gluten-containing foods can lead to an inflammatory response in the body. Similarly, some people may be sensitive to dairy products, which can lead to inflammation in the body.

You should avoid processed foods that are often high in refined carbohydrates, added sugars, sodium, and unhealthy fats, all of which can promote inflammation in the body. You should limit your intake of processed foods, such as fast food, packaged snacks, and ready-to-eat meals.

Anti-Inflammatory Diet

An anti-inflammatory diet emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods, and nutrient-dense that can help reduce inflammation in the body, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fatty fish, nuts, and seeds. An anti-inflammatory diet has been associated with improved health outcomes and a reduced risk of chronic disease. These foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein sources, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats.

Fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can reduce inflammation in the body. Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. Whole grains are high in fiber and can help reduce inflammation in the body.

Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, are anti-inflammatory and can be found in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as nuts and seeds such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and algae-based supplements. Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. Nuts and seeds are high in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.

Antioxidants are compounds that can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body by neutralizing free radicals. They include vitamins A, C, E, and minerals such as selenium, zinc, and copper. Good sources of antioxidants include fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

Probiotics and prebiotics play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. Together, probiotics and prebiotics can help improve digestion, boost the immune system, and reduce the risk of various health conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and even some cancers. Sources of probiotics include fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and miso. Prebiotics can be found in garlic, onions, artichokes, and bananas

Drinking water can help to flush out toxins and waste products from the body, reducing inflammation. You should aim to drink at least about half your body weight in ounces of water per day, and more if you are physically active or live in a hot climate.

Systemic inflammation can lead to chronic health problems, but with the right diet and nutrition, it can be managed effectively. By avoiding certain foods and incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet, you can reduce inflammation in the body and improve overall health. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet.

At Project Chiro, we offer chiropractic services that can also help manage inflammation in the body. Our team of experienced chiropractors can provide individualized treatment plans that can address your unique health needs. Our services include spinal adjustments, massage therapy, and nutritional counseling, all of which can complement a healthy diet in managing systemic inflammation.

If you are interested in learning more about how chiropractic care can help you manage inflammation, schedule a consultation with one of our chiropractors today. We would love to help you live a healthier, more active life, free from the effects of systemic inflammation.