Inflammation is your body’s natural response to identifying a potential “injury” in the body and sending immune cells, molecules, and blood vessels out into the vast expanse of your body to repair it. But it’s one thing when inflammation takes place to heal a virus or infection, and it’s another thing when chronic inflammation occurs even when there isn’t an obvious culprit. Chronic inflammation is linked to several health conditions such as diabetes and arthritis, and it’s sometimes also the cause of skin issues such as acne, psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea.
The foods we eat play a role in curbing inflammation or contributing to it. You may not be shocked to learn that foods like leafy greens, fruits, and plant-based proteins are often key to lessening inflammation and the effect it has on your body. But other foods, some also not surprising, can make inflammation much worse.
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According to Neuroscientist Robert Love, these three highly inflammatory, age-accelerating foods should be avoided at all costs.
1. Soda
Soda has a lot of sugar in it and no fiber, Love says, and so it spikes your blood sugar very high and accelerates both aging and weight gain. All of the sugar in soda also contributes to inflammation in the body and inflammation is one of the primary causes of aging, according to Love.
2. French Fries
“Salt dehydrates you,” Love says. “Dehydration is one of the primary causes of premature aging of the skin.” Needless to say, French fries are filled with excess amounts of salt. If you are having French fries, it’s very important to stay hydrated to combat the dehydrating effect of an excess of salt and sodium.
French fries are also deep fried in oil. When foods are cooked in high heat, they can lead to the formation of Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs), which contribute to inflammation in the body and oxidative stress — both of which have been linked to diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular, and liver disease.
3. Hot Dogs
Hot dogs and other processed meats contain sulfites, which are chemicals that "can dehydrate the skin" and cause premature aging, according to Love. The overconsumption of processed meat has also been linked to cardiovascular disease, colorectal cancer, and other health issues. Processed meats are typically high in saturated fats that can contribute to inflammation, as well.
