Research Report: Causes of Inflammation

Inflammation, often characterized by redness, swelling, and discomfort, is a complex bodily response that can be triggered by a myriad of factors, both internal and external. Understanding the root causes of inflammation is crucial for empowering yourself for overall health and well-being. In this blog, we delve into the holistic perspective of inflammation. Let’s explore the obvious culprits like injury and infection but also take a deeper look into lifestyle choices that lead to inflammation. By taking a comprehensive approach, we aim to shed light on the multifaceted nature of inflammation, empowering readers to make informed decisions for cultivating a balanced and inflammation-free life.

CAUSES OF INFLAMMATION

Sciences is learning that a precursor to many diseases is inflammation. In January 2023 we reported on a new study in the Science Direct journal that stated inflammation is the beginning of eye diseases such as glaucoma, macula degeneration, and cataracts.   Inflammation in the eye puts the cornea, lens, retina and macula at risk. What medical science is not looking for is the cause of the inflammation. If we can eliminate the cause we have a better chance of avoiding chronic eye disease or disease in general.

ISOLATED CAUSE

In most instances, inflammation is caused by an infection or allergic reaction.  An infection can be caused by pathogens we can acquire naturally from the environment or by contact with an infected person. Allergic reactions can be from different antagonists such as getting the wrong blood in a transfusion or having a negative reaction to medications. It can also stem from a food allergy, which affects millions of people. In the US, there are 26 million adults and 5.6 million children with food allergies.

FOODS THAT CAUSE INFLAMMATION 

Due to the frequent exposure to foods, allergies by far are probably the most likely candidate for inflammation-induced diseases. Many do not realize they are allergic to their diet. An example is a milk allergy, in which upper head infections (ear aches, tonsillitis, strep throat, sinus infections, bronchitis) and skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis) can develop. Food allergies are very common with these foods:

• wheat
• dairy
• nuts 
• shellfish

Inflammation can also occur when consuming: 

• red meat 
• processed and cured meat (especially with preservatives added)
• grains – including rice, corn
• snack foods – which have other allergen foods like milk in them
• fried foods
• soda & other sweetened drinks
• food dyes
• sugar

“It should be noted that common inflammatory diseases are indeed diseases of disrupted homeostasis.” National Library of Medicine Biotechnology Center September 2013

GMO ALLERGY? 

Medical science tells us that humans are not allergic to GMO foods and state that the food allergies stem from:

• peanuts
• tree nuts
• milk
• eggs
• wheat
• soy
• shellfish
• fish
• sesame seeds

There are hundreds of foods people are allergic to such as spices, chocolate, fermented foods etc. For science to have a limited list shows us that the problem is not a priority to medical science. The statement that people are not allergic to GMO foods is not scientific, especially if science is stating there is no difference between conventional foods and GMO’s.  The science states the offending allergic proteins in the foods is removed and not included in the GMO food source and is unlikely to produce allergies. Obviously, then GMO’s are not the same as conventional foods, and modifications can cause problems if science is willing to look for them. If we compare the percentage of conventional to GMO corn we find that a majority of the corn (92%) is genetically modified in the US.

“Animal toxicity studies with certain GM foods have shown that they may toxically affect several organs and systems. The results of most studies with GM foods indicate that they may cause some common toxic effects such as hepatic, pancreatic, renal, or reproductive effects and may alter the hematological, biochemical, and immunologic parameters, which may promote cancer.” National Library of Medicine Center for Biotechnology, February 2009

STOMACH INFLAMMATION STUDY

A June 2013 study in the journal Organic Systems reported on peer-review research on genetically modified foods Vs conventional foods and the side effects. The research was conducted on pigs and the outcome was the pigs consuming the GMO foods developed stomach inflammation. The two groups of pigs were fed the two diets after they were weaned for nearly 6 months (which is the lifespan of a pig from birth to when they are slaughtered). The study was a double-blind randomized trial conducted in a commercial piggery setting.  Trained veterinarians performed the autopsies and they did not know from which feed group the pigs came from. Here is their report:

• GMO-fed pigs had a significantly higher and more severe rate of stomach inflammation compared to the non-GMO-fed pigs. 
• The GMO-fed female pigs had a 25% increased weight of the uterus. Male pigs grown for food sources are neutered after birth.

The critics of this study had connections to the biotech industry and they had no studies to present to scientifically rebut the findings. This study had very good controls and highlights how animal studies can be discredited. Animal studies are done for a reason before human trials begin. If there are health risks, the human trials normally are not conducted. 

“I think it’s a really important pig study, and I know it’s received a lot of criticism, but I think it highlights the fact that we just don’t know enough about the long-term health effects of eating genetically modified food,” Carole Bartolotto, MA, RD, dietitian

The lead scientist on the study, Judy Carman, is a professor at Flinders University in Adelaide, Australia, and has a doctorate in medicine specializing in nutritional biochemistry and metabolic regulation along with a master’s degree in public health, specializing in epidemiology and bio-statistics.  Dr. Carman points out that mycotoxins (a naturally occurring fungi that can grow on food) were not the cause of the inflammation. A majority of the current studies on GM foods showed “no health risks”. Pigs have a digestive system similar to humans and, unfortunately, this pig study is largely ignored and the industry is not conducting further studies like it.

“It will be important to determine whether people who are already predisposed to gastrointestinal conditions have a more sensitive response to GM foods.”  Carl F. Cranor, Ph.D.,  professor of Philosophy and Environmental Toxicology Program University of California, Riverside 

“Determining whether GM foods pose significant risks for humans may be difficult. No institutional review board would approve a human study where one-half of the participants ate a strict diet of GM food.” Carl F. Cranor, Ph.D.,  professor of Philosophy and Environmental Toxicology Program University of California, Riverside 

It may seem that science is not looking for the health problems from eating GM foods and any health issues produced most likely will be diagnosed as a common medical condition.

“Eighty percent of processed foods contain GM products.” Joy Dubost, Ph.D., RD, CSSD, food scientist 

APPROVED GM FOODS ON MARKET

More GM foods are added to the marketplace annually: 

• Corn – a common US crop and most is GM
• Soy
• cotton seed
• sugar beets
• Hawaiian papaya
• zucchini
• crook-neck squash 
• potato
• canola
• alfalfa
• apples
• pink pineapple
• wheat

“The question of how much of a GM food would be required to produce a response is significant and not easily answered. For me, the pig study is thought-provoking.” Lona Sandon, MEd, RD, LD, professor of clinical nutrition University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas

INFLAMMATION DISGUISED?

The critics of the pig study did not want to investigate the possibilities of inflammation from eating GM foods. What are the chances medical physicians are not looking at GM food as the contributing factor for IBS, cancer, or eye diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, or macula degeneration? Could it be that hidden GM foods are more prevalent causing inflammation responses and leading to a myriad of serious health conditions? If 90% of the US corn is GMO, think about how many products corn is included in. Corn starch is in thousands of products from gravy to soup. Corn ingredients are going to be included in: 

• baked goods - crackers, breads, pretzels, fillings, icing etc.
• brewed beverages – beer, ale
• Food additives – citric acids
• Medicines – intravenous, injected drugs, vaccines, prescribed pills

“Inflammation is frequently a key element in the pathological progression of organ disease. More research needs to be done as to the understanding of the inflammatory response for improved prevention and treatments.” Oncutarget Journal December 2017

THE SHIFT

During WWII Americans grew gardens. Fresh vegetables and fruits kept them healthier. Americans should use heirloom seeds (non-GMO) and become more self-sufficient and protect the source of where nutrients are derived from. 

Most gardeners also have an herb section in the garden. Medicinal herbs have always been a part of homestead gardening. Select some of your favorite herbs and grow them. If you can’t grow your herbs you can source them from a grower or a bottled tincture for a longer shelf life. 

HERBS FOR INFLAMMATION

For centuries Willow Bark and Meadow Sweet herbs were used for pain and inflammation internally. We combined these two power-packed herbs into one formula, Pain Anti-Inflammatory Formula.

We have you covered for external pain and inflammation from injuries. With a blend of several herbs including Calendula Flower, St. John Wort, and Peppermint Oil, the Arthritis Rub and Sports Rub are saviors for aches and pains that won’t go away.

Not to worry about stomach and bowel inflammation, we recommend these organic, cold-pressed herbal products when you experience a flare-up internally. These tinctures can be used separately or in combination for more severe cases.

• Slippery Elm Tincture - soothes and stops diarrhea
• Marshmallow Root Tincture - calms bowel inflammation
• Gentian Root - aids the digestive process
• Ginger Root Tincture - broad spectrum anti-inflammatory
• Peppermint Tincture - digestive aid but avoid if suffering from acid reflux or hiatal hernia, and not recommended for infants

Navigating inflammation requires a holistic understanding of its triggers and influences, encompassing lifestyle choices when it comes to our food. By embracing healthy lifestyle choices and holistic options, we can mitigate inflammation's impact and promote overall well-being. Remember, our bodies are intricately interconnected systems, and addressing inflammation holistically empowers us to live vibrant, inflammation-free lives. Let's continue to explore, learn, and adapt, embracing the journey toward optimal health and vitality with a holistic mindset.

*The information contained herein is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure disease. Seek medical advice from a licensed medical physician before using any product or therapy.*

Sources:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18989835/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16364445/

https://www.todaysdietitian.com/newarchives/120913p12.shtml

https://www.oncotarget.com/article/23208/text/