Study Pinpoints Foods That Send Disease Risk Soaring

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted December 16, 2024

We’ve all heard that old saying, “You are what you eat.”

Well, it’s been around for so long because it’s true. And it turns out your dinner plate could secretly stoke the fires of disease in your body.

A new study revealed a shocking truth about the American diet. This time it’s not about calories or carbs –it’s about inflammation.

Let’s dig into this eye-opening research and uncover the inflammatory ingredients lurking in your meals…

Research published in the journal Public Health Nutrition paints a worrying picture of our eating habits.

A whopping 57 percent of U.S. adults are eating a pro-inflammatory diet.

That’s nearly six out of every 10 Americans unknowingly fanning the flames of inflammation with every bite!

What’s the big deal about a bit of inflammation?

Well, chronic inflammation isn’t just a minor inconvenience. It’s like a slow-burning fire in your body, quietly damaging your cells and paving the way for serious health problems.

We’re talking about increased risks of heart disease, cancer, type-2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and depression.

The researchers used a unique tool designed to examine inflammation in the diet. And what they found should make us all sit up and take notice.

Here’s a list of the top inflammation drivers sneaking onto our plates…

• Processed meats (such as hot dogs, bacon, and deli meats)
• Refined carbohydrates (like white bread, pastries, and sugary cereals)
• Fried foods
• Sugary drinks
• Trans fats (still found in some processed and fast foods)
• Excessive alcohol

But there’s also good news. Just as your fork can be a weapon AGAINST your health, it can also be your most powerful ally.

Here are some simple ways to douse the inflammatory fire in your diet:

• Embrace the rainbow: Fill your plate with various colorful fruits and vegetables. These powerhouses are packed with anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Go nuts for healthy fats: Incorporate omega-3-rich foods such as fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds into your meals.
• Spice it up: Turmeric, ginger, and garlic aren’t just flavor boosters but also inflammation fighters.
• Fiber is your friend: Whole grains, legumes, and beans can help reduce inflammation in your gut.
• Sip on green tea: This ancient beverage is loaded with antioxidants that combat inflammation.
• Indulge in dark chocolate: Yes, you read that right. A modest amount of dark chocolate (70 percent cocoa or higher) can help fight inflammation.

Remember, making these changes doesn’t mean you must overhaul your entire diet overnight. Small, consistent steps can significantly improve your health over time.

By being mindful of what’s on your plate, you can satisfy your hunger and invest in your long-term health and well-being.

P.S. The dieting mistake that’s harming your health.

Source:

Meadows RJ, Paskett ED, Bower JK, Kaye GL, Lemeshow S, Harris RE. Socio-demographic differences in the dietary inflammatory index from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005–2018: a comparison of multiple imputation versus complete case analysis. Public Health Nutrition. 2024;27(1):e184. doi:10.1017/S1368980024001800

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

View More By Dr. Scott Olson, ND