Low-grade chronic inflammation is one of the most important mechanisms driving almost any form of chronic illness, as well as being a key aspect of body fat accumulation and suboptimal fertility. Inflammation can be caused and exacerbated by foods that interact poorly with the gut lining. The biggest offenders in this area are dairy proteins (casein and whey), gluten, fructose (a core component of sugar molecules), and industrially-produced “vegetable” oils.
A low-inflammation diet seeks to eliminate these foods and replace them with others that are rich in antioxidants. This includes many plant foods as well as high-fat sources of meat, eggs, and fish.
Poor blood-glucose regulation drives inflammation, providing another central mechanism by which our diet impacts our health and fertility. A blood-sugar-happy diet seeks to achieve an optimal insulin response by managing blood glucose levels. This generally means eating a low-carb, low-sugar, high-fat, moderate-protein diet. Ensuring that carbohydrate-rich foods are selected and prepared in a way that causes a slow and steady change in blood glucose levels is also very helpful.
By combining these dietary strategies with other lifestyle factors like exercise, sleep, stress management, and a clean living environment, individuals can maximize their health outcomes.