The Mediterranean and DASH diets can reduce systemic inflammation in the body, which increases the risk of cancer, diabetes, dementia, strokes and heart attacks. General practitioner Aigul Muftakhetdinova spoke about this.
Systemic inflammation, also known as chronic inflammation, is a condition in which a prolonged and continuous inflammatory reaction occurs in the body. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including chronic infections, autoimmune diseases, metabolic syndromes and poor lifestyle choices.
According to the doctor, the Mediterranean and DASH diets are rich in foods that fight inflammation. We are talking about fruits, vegetables, whole grains high in fiber, legumes, avocados, olive oil, nuts, flax seeds, chia. The list also includes seafood: salmon, herring, sardines, mackerel.
Tea, coffee, dark chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 70%, herbs, spices (turmeric, ginger) can also soften systemic inflammation, noted Muftakhetdinova.
< br>She named foods that, on the contrary, contribute to inflammation:
- refined sweets and drinks
- processed meats with a high fat content (bacon, sausage),
- fried,
- saturated fats (full-fat dairy products, partially hydrogenated oils, fatty red meat),
- >excess alcohol.
Systemic inflammation can also be caused by a high-calorie diet and obesity. Fat is a pro-inflammatory tissue, the doctor noted.
Treatment for systemic inflammation usually involves lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet, physical activity, stress management, and adequate rest. In some cases, medications may be required to control the inflammatory process.
Systemic inflammation is associated with various diseases:
1. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the joints, but can also affect other organs and systems.
2. Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the digestive system.
3. Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the large intestine, leading to ulcers and inflammation of its walls.
4. Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks its own organs and tissues, causing inflammation.
5. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, which manifests itself as rashes, itching and peeling of the skin.
6. Atherosclerosis is a disease in which the inner walls of the arteries become inflamed and fatty deposits accumulate, which can lead to blood clots and cardiovascular disease.
Read also: Toxicologist Kutushov: your health may be at risk if you choose the wrong one frying pan and saucepan.
Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.