The harms of canola oil, processed foods and more: Top myths about inflammation Fitness and health January 7, 2025, 1:30 pm

There are many myths about inflammation. Here are the most popular ones.

Canola oil is poisonous. In fact, many studies show that linoleic acid (a type of omega-6 fatty acid found in canola and other vegetable oils) may even help reduce chronic inflammation. To achieve the maximum anti-inflammatory effect, you need to balance omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in your diet. By the way, rapeseed oil also contains omega-3.

Processed foods cause inflammation. Just because a food is processed doesn’t mean it’s automatically bad for you. For example, pre-washed lettuce is also a processed food. Many foods that come in boxes, jars or bags are actually quite nutritious. Beans, for example, are a fiber-rich protein option, and canned fish is an affordable and equally healthy alternative to fresh fish. Therefore, instead of avoiding processed foods, consume them in moderation.

Night shadows should be avoided. Nightshade is a family of plants that includes tomatoes, eggplants, bell peppers, potatoes and capsicums. Unless you are allergic or hypersensitive to these foods, there is no point in avoiding them. This is because they contain vitamin C, lycopene, beta-carotene and capsaicin. These are important anti-inflammatory substances.

Dairy products are bad for you, so choose non-dairy alternatives. If you have a milk allergy, it can actually cause inflammation. The same applies to lactose intolerance and difficulties in digestion. However, if you do not experience these problems, non-dairy alternatives will not be healthier than milk. Many of these foods are low in protein, may not be fortified with vitamin D, or may contain added sugar. Additionally, research shows that dairy products actually help the body deal with inflammation.

Sugar in any form causes inflammation. Sugar can be added or natural. However, consuming large amounts of added sugar can promote inflammation and is associated with a higher risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and other serious health problems. On the other hand, fructose, glucose and lactose, which are naturally found in fruits, vegetables and unsweetened dairy products, are not just sugar. They also contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, protein and fiber, nutrients that reduce inflammation. What matters is not whether you eat foods that contain added sugar, but how much you consume overall and whether the food contains fiber, which helps alleviate the inflammatory effects of sugar.

News materials cannot be equated with a doctor’s prescription. Consult an expert before making a decision.