Is food contributing to your aches and pains?

Our bodies depend on temporary inflammation to help fight off sudden injuries or infection. But when that inflammation becomes chronic, “the immune system mistakenly attacks normal cells, and the process that ordinarily heals becomes destructive”. When inflammation as an immune response is never shut off, the constant production of immune cells can do permanent damage, leading to cancer, heart disease, arthritis and Alzheimer’s, among other health concerns such as back pain, headaches and more. The foods we eat – and do not eat – play a large part in how much inflammation is created in our bodies. It’s likely that no one food is to blame for causing inflammation but that your overall diet could contribute. Some of the common inflammatory foods include:
Omega-6 Fatty Acids
The average person gets more omega-6 fatty acids via diet than omega-3s, but this imbalance can lead to inflammation. Our body craves omega 3s which can turn off the inflammatory messengers. To create the correct balance cut back on omega 6 heavy seeds and vegetable oils and add more fatty fish and walnuts etc.
Hydrogenated and trans fats found in margarine, shortening, lard or products made with them. That includes baked goods, cookies, pies, buns.
White sugar including lollies, cakes, soft drinks and sweetened juices. Research is showing that sugar is one of the most addictive substances you can use and is highly inflammatory.
Artificial sweeteners (Nutrasweet, Splenda, saccharin, aspartame, etc.) Research links these nasty substances to many serious health conditions including inflammation.
Food additives: colours, flavour enhancers, stabilizers, preservatives, etc. Unfortunately, many foods consumed by children (and adults!) are loaded with these harmful, toxic ingredients. Avoid as much as possible.
Dairy products (yogurt, ice cream, milk, cheese, etc.). Today’s dairy products are packed with hormones, antibiotics, and other harmful ingredients and have numerous links to inflammation in the body. Use alternatives where possible such as almond milk, coconut yoghurt etc.
Wheat products. Wheat is highly acid-forming and inflammatory in the body. Worse, most wheat available now is genetically-modified (GM). Many serious health conditions are starting to be linked to GM wheat consumption.
Gluten. Gluten is found in most grains and is highly inflammatory. It punches holes in the gut lining allowing nasty bacteria through creating inflammation and often leading to pain and conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome. Choose grains or seeds like buckwheat, quinoa, rice or millet instead.
Alcohol. High in sugar and a burden to the liver. Alcohol is naturally irritating to our insides. When too many drinks are consumed bacteria can more easily pass through the intestinal lining leading to irritation and inflammation.
Experiment by eliminating certain foods and notice the difference in how you feel. Each person is different and will have a different reaction to foods. Stick to a diet that is as natural as possible and uses fresh, healthy ingredients.