The Hidden Dangers of Over-the-Counter Anti-Inflammatories
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can be potentially detrimental to one's health in various ways, including stomach upset, ulcers, increased blood pressure, kidney failure, and an increased risk of heart attack and heart failure. However, the risk of these adverse effects is generally small for otherwise healthy individuals, and the benefits of NSAIDs in reducing pain outweigh the risks. Regarding diverticulosis, it is now believed that eating seeds and nuts does not cause inflammation or blockage of the diverticula, and in fact, research suggests that consuming nuts and seeds may decrease the risk of diverticulitis attacks. Other factors that reduce the risk of diverticulitis include regular exercise, high fiber intake, limited red meat consumption, and avoiding smoking and heavy alcohol use.