Scientists have identified foods that cause inflammation in the body
Based on the research results, scientists compiled a list of 18 items. Heart and vascular diseases are also named among the consequences of improper nutrition.
Scientists have found that eating certain foods leads to chronic inflammation in the body and the development of cardiovascular diseases. The corresponding results of the study are published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
Scientists have developed a pro-inflammatory nutrition index based on the assessment of the number of inflammation biomarkers (chemokines and interleukins) in the blood. The list of prohibited foods included 18 ones that showed the strongest association with inflammatory biomarkers.
So, the experts managed to find out that this index is associated with an increase in the frequency of heart diseases and strokes. The study involved 210 thousand people of different genders and ages. It was conducted for 32 years – from 1986 to 2021.
Adjusted for other factors — body mass index, physical activity, family history of heart disease, and multivitamin use – a “pro-inflammatory” diet increases the risk of heart disease by 46%, and the risk of stroke by 28%.
Diets with a high content of red and processed meat, refined grains, and sugary drinks increase the likelihood of heart disease and stroke. To reduce the risks, scientists recommend adding foods high in antioxidants to the diet, such as green leafy and yellow vegetables, and whole grains, as well as coffee, tea, and wine. The researchers called walnuts especially useful. They reduce the level of six out of ten biomarkers of inflammation.
