Why Are We So Inflamed? Understanding Omega 3 and Omega 6 Balance in the American Diet

Inflammation has become one of the most common health challenges in the United States. From joint pain to chronic diseases, more and more people are living with inflammation without realizing that much of it is connected to what we eat. At FlexiCare, we believe that understanding this connection is the first step toward creating healthier, more balanced habits.

IInflammation: Friend and Foe

Inflammation is not always bad. In fact, it’s a natural defense mechanism. When you get injured or sick, your body triggers an inflammatory response to protect and heal itself. This process is essential for survival.

The problem begins when inflammation becomes chronic—when your body stays in a state of “alert” even when there’s no real threat. This ongoing overreaction can damage tissues and lead to conditions such as:

Arthritis and bursitis

Autoimmune diseases

Migraines

Sciatic pain

Achilles tendon inflammation

Neuropathy

Plantar fasciitis

Allergies

And even cancer So, why is chronic inflammation so widespread in the U.S.?

The Omega 3 vs. Omega 6 Imbalance

One of the biggest reasons is the imbalance between Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids in the modern American diet.

Omega-3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory. They help reduce inflammation and support brain, heart, and joint health.

Omega-6 fatty acids are pro-inflammatory. They are not “bad”—we need them—but in excess, they can fuel chronic inflammation.

In a healthy diet, the ideal Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio is close to 1:1. Unfortunately, studies show that the typical American ratio can be as high as 20:1—or even 50:1.

Why the Imbalance?

High consumption of sugar, grains, and cereals – These foods dominate the modern diet and contribute to inflammation.

Animal diet changes – Farm-raised animals are no longer fed grass or natural diets. Instead, they are fed grains and cereals, which are high in Omega-6. As a result, the meat, eggs, and dairy we eat contain far more Omega-6 than Omega-3.

Processed foods – Many packaged foods are made with vegetable oils (soy, corn, sunflower, canola), which are extremely high in Omega-6.

This shift means our daily meals are flooding us with Omega-6, while Omega-3—found in foods like wild fish, flaxseed, chia, walnuts, and grass-fed meats—is often missing.

Finding the Balance

The key is not to eliminate Omega-6 but to restore balance by increasing Omega-3 intake and reducing unnecessary Omega-6. Some simple ways to start:

Add more Omega-3 rich foods (wild-caught salmon, sardines, flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts).

Choose grass-fed or pasture-raised meats instead of grain-fed.

Replace refined vegetable oils with healthier fats (olive oil, avocado oil).

Reduce processed and fried foods high in Omega-6.

By creating a healthier ratio, you help your body calm unnecessary inflammation and protect long-term wellness.

FlexiCare’s Approach

At FlexiCare, we understand that wellness isn’t about strict restrictions or fad diets. It’s about awareness, balance, and sustainable habits. Our nutrition coaching helps you discover how the foods you eat impact your body, so you can make better choices without feeling deprived.

When you combine better nutrition with assisted stretching and yoga, you support your body in every way: reducing inflammation, restoring mobility, and improving your quality of life.

A vibrant plate showcasing a variety of healthy foods for personalized nutrition.

Your health journey is unique, and personalized food coaching can help you navigate it successfully. Embrace the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The path to better health is within your reach, and it starts with the choices you make today.