Health News Update: Western Diet, Gut Inflammation & Chronic Conditions
Hey there everyone:
In this study, the researchers were looking to review evidence regarding dietary patterns, their effect on the gut and microbiome, and how this may impact the increase of chronic health conditions that we are not witnessing. Here is what they were looking at:
“…a Western diet (WD), as described, features excessive amounts of saturated fat, refined grains, sugar, alcohol, processed and red meat, conventionally raised animal products, high-fat dairy products, and salt. High amounts of ultra-processed foods and drinks are also characteristic of the Western diet, according to the review authors.
For the current research, they compared and contrasted this to a Mediterranean diet, which they stated as having lower levels of processed food and higher levels of fruits, vegetables, and plant-based proteins, among other nutrient-rich plant-based foods.
Here is what they found:
“An increasing body of evidence supports the association between the diffusion of WD and the rising prevalence of NCDs (Non-Communicable Diseases). WD also negatively affects both gut microbiota and the immune system by driving to microbial alterations, gut barrier dysfunction, increased intestinal permeability, and leakage of harmful bacterial metabolites into the bloodstream, with consequent contribution to the development of systemic low-grade inflammation.”
Bottom Line:
As you know, inflammation causes, perpetuates, and/or aggravates every known human chronic illness or condition…including aging! Thus, the traditional standard American diet predisposes you to developing chronic low-grade inflammation which leads to diseases, suffering, inflammaging, and a reduced health span and lifespan. The article goes into how diet causes adverse effects in the gut, microbiome, immune system and more, and it is a fairly easy read if you care to dig into it. For now, start making the move to a plant-based food pattern and enjoy the benefits of better health and a longer, happier life.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1521691824000489
