Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, May 10: Unexplained pain, swelling, or redness in the body could be linked to chronic inflammation—a condition increasingly associated with serious health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

While inflammation is the body's natural defense mechanism, poor lifestyle choices and certain everyday foods can trigger or worsen it. Health experts warn that several commonly consumed items may be silently contributing to long-term inflammation.

Top culprits include:

• Refined Carbs: White bread, pasta, and pastries cause blood sugar spikes and lack essential nutrients, triggering inflammatory responses.

• Excess Sugar: Found in sodas and sweets, high sugar intake disrupts immunity and gut health.

• Processed Meats: Bacon, sausages, and hot dogs contain harmful preservatives and fats that promote inflammation.

• Trans Fats: Present in margarine and packaged snacks, they raise bad cholesterol and activate inflammatory pathways.

• Fried Foods: Foods like French fries and fried chicken alter gut bacteria and increase inflammation.

• Excess Omega-6 Oils: Oils like soybean and sunflower can disrupt the omega-6/omega-3 balance, worsening inflammation.

• MSG: A flavor enhancer in packaged foods, MSG has been linked to increased inflammatory markers in studies.

Experts recommend a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3s, along with regular exercise and stress management, to combat chronic inflammation and improve overall health.