Which foods are inflammatory?

As health professionals, we are often asked about the role inflammatory foods play in reducing inflammation throughout the body. The natural body fluids in a healthy person are alkaline (high pH) and are found to be more acidic in those who are ill (low pH). The pH scale is from 1 to 14, with 7 being considered neutral. Numbers above 7 are considered acidic and numbers below 7 are referred to as alkaline.

Some people who have chosen foods in their diet which are not acidic have noticed a difference in their pain, while others have not found a difference.

Foods that have the greatest acidity include: soybean, hazelnuts, walnuts, brazel nuts, barley, beef, lobster, processed cheese, ice cream, beer, sugar, cocoa and white vinegar. Foods that are the least acidic (alkaline) include lime, nectarines, raspberries, watermelon, lentils, yams, onion and pumpkin seeds. For those interested in seeing a chart of these foods, Charlton Health is happy provide one to you.

Keep in mind this does not replace researched treatments and may not be effective for everyone. Reducing sugar intake and eating a well balanced diet with omega-3 fish oil and limited processed foods is always suggested.

Carolyn Whiskin is the Pharmacy Manager for Charlton Health. Carolyn specializes in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, pharmaceutical compounding, women’s health, pain and smoking cessation. Carolyn has won provincial and national awards for her commitment to patient care and public service.

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