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processed

Donuts

+3.4

Donuts merge refined flour, sugar, and trans-fat-laden oils through deep frying, creating an inflammatory perfect storm that spikes blood sugar and oxidative stress.

Ingredient score breakdown

Trans fats from frying

+1.8

Hydrogenated oils and high-heat frying create trans fats that increase LDL, decrease HDL, and promote vascular inflammation.

Refined sugar coating

+1.3

Glazes and fillings deliver rapid glucose spikes, insulin resistance, and inflammatory cytokine activation.

Refined white flour

+0.7

Stripped of fiber and nutrients, white flour behaves like pure sugar in the bloodstream.

AGEs from browning

-0.4

Advanced glycation end-products form during frying but are partially offset by antioxidants in chocolate varieties.

Why this score

This score is ingredient-based and weighted by DII-inspired evidence. Foods with added sugar, refined starches, and heavy processing trend higher; foods with fiber, omega-3, and polyphenols trend lower.

FODMAP note

High FODMAP if filled with custard or containing honey, otherwise low FODMAP in small portions (half a donut).

Healthier alternatives

  • whole wheat bread
  • rolled oats

Related foods

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