Study Pinpoints Foods That Send Disease Risk Soaring

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

Dr. Scott Olson, ND

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 Free Articles

Can't Shake Negative Thoughts? Check Your GUT First

Everyone struggles sometimes to stay positive or see the bright side of things. It’s part of being human. You might think those negative thoughts start in your brain—but it’s   more complicated than that. A simple change to your daily habit can help dial down those negative feelings. New research suggests that this simple strategy could...

Read This

Repair Your Gut Barrier With the “Sunshine Cure”

Happy Fourth of July! As you celebrate with sunshine, good food, and great company, don’t forget—those summer rays aren’t just lifting your spirits… they’re also working behind the scenes to protect your gut and boost your health. Your gut health is more important than most people realize. It directly affects your overall well-being—from immunity to...

Read This

The 5 Health Numbers Your Doctor Wishes You'd Track

Have you ever been told you should “advocate” for yourself when it comes to your healthcare and wondered what that really means? It’s not just a buzzword—it’s a powerful concept that empowers you to take charge of your own health journey. In fact, it could save your life. Being your own best health advocate starts...

Read This

Do THIS Every 20 Minutes to STOP Digital Eye Strain

Our eyes are under assault—they are the true victims of our current digital age. And it’s because we are constantly glued to screens… phones, tablets, computers, TVs—you name it. Unfortunately, that screen time is taking a serious toll. Digital eye strain affects millions worldwide. In fact, up to 50 percent of computer users could develop...

Read This

Mailbag: The Calcium Mistake That's Hardening Your Arteries

“What type of calcium is best to take with bisphosphonates for osteoporosis? I know some varieties can build up in arteries. Thanks for the help.” —Bone Builder Hi Builder, When a patient asks me about calcium, I ask them a peculiar question in return… “Ever wonder how elephants and giraffes build and maintain their massive...

Read This

Doctor-Approved Method to Ditch Blood Pressure Meds

In a world where drug solutions dominate healthcare, it’s refreshing to discover that best remedies sometimes don’t involve a single pill. A groundbreaking study shows simple relaxation techniques could be your secret weapon against one of America’s deadliest health conditions. Best of all? It’s free, easy to start right away—and your results are bound to...

Read This

Trouble Hearing? Your Heart Could Be at Risk

With research exploding and data pouring in, scientists are uncovering some weird (and surprisingly helpful) health connections. Today’s odd couple? Hearing loss and heart failure. Turns out your ears and your ticker are more connected than you ever imagined. A major study published in the journal Heart looked at over 164,000 people for nearly a...

Read This

Stay Up Late? It Could Destroy Your Mental Health

If you dread mornings but come alive at night, there’s concerning new research you need to know about. A recent study found that “night owls” are at higher risk for depression. But before you rush to set your alarm to get up with the sun tomorrow, there’s more to the story… Chronotypes are essentially your...

Read This

Go from Flabby to Fit with this Common Vitamin

If you’re like many of us, you woke up one day, looked in the mirror, and realized you’re no spring chicken anymore. Even worse—when you weren’t paying attention—it seems you somehow misplaced the muscles of your youth and have gone from fit to flabby. Aging has a way of humbling us like that. But scientists...

Read This

Seasonal Allergy “Off Switch” Discovered in the GUT

“Doc, why am I suddenly suffering from seasonal allergies when I’ve never had them before?” It’s a question I get all the time—and my answer might surprise you. Stop looking up at the trees—and start looking down at your gut… Your sneezing fits, itchy eyes, and runny nose might have more to do with what’s...

Read This