conscious eating
Eating to Decrease Chronic Inflammation by Tamara Luck Chronic inflammation precedes many health conditions, ranging from heart disease to obesity to hormonal imbalances. However, all individuals have a great opportunity to quell chronic inflammation through diet by 1) decreasing intake of foods that can stimulate, or turn on, chronic inflammatory pathways and 2) increasing intake of foods containing inflammation-quenching nutrients. This two-fold approach allows for control over health conditions while also experiencing the freedom and nourishment from enjoying delicious and nutritious food. Unfortunately, some of the most pro-inflammatory foods are also the most ubiquitous. Turn over almost 22
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any packaged food and one will likely see various forms of added sugar, hidden under names like fructose, maltose, cane sugar, etc. Sugar sneaks onto plates in the form of salad dressings, protein bars, breakfast sausages, yogurts and more. High intake of these refined sugars can raise blood sugar and contribute to weight gain, both of which can add to the overall body inflammation burden. Additionally, high blood sugar can also create hormonal imbalances, promoting increased testosterone in women, increased estrogen in men and weight gain for both. Instead, focus on foods that contain naturally occurring sugars, like fruit, and when possible, opt to
