What does an anti-inflammatory diet look like and why is it essential to good health?
Inflammation occurs when your body reacts to something it recognizes as foreign or from an injury. Common conditions, especially allergies (skin rashes, headaches, sinus pressure, gastrointestinal distress) and autoimmune diseases (Celiac disease, Psoriasis, arthritis, Type 1 diabetes), may begin with inflammation in the gut.
However, sometimes inflammation persists day in and day out. This causes chronic inflammation and has been linked to:
Cancer
Heart disease
Diabetes
Arthritis
Depression
Alzheimers
Foods that cause inflammation are:
Refined carbohydrates - white bread and pastries
French fries and other fried foods
Soda and other sugar-sweetened beverages
Red meat - burgers, steaks and processed meat (hot dogs, sausages etc)
Margarine - shortening, and lard
One of the most powerful tools to combat inflammation comes from the grocery store. Stock up on these powerful foods and help your gut reduce inflammation.
Anti-Inflammatory foods are:
tomatoes
olive oil
green leafy vegetables - spinach, kale and collards
Nuts - such as almonds and walnuts
Fatty fish - like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines
Fruits - such as strawberries, blueberries, cherries, and oranges
To reduce levels of inflammation, aim for an overall healthy diet. If youโre looking for an eating plan that follows these principles then consider the Mediterranean diet, which is high in fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, fish and healthy oils.
Note: The information provided is for general educational purposes, has not been reviewed nor approved by the FDA and is not intended to take the place of advice from your medical professional, licensed dietician or nutritionist. Please always talk to a registered health care provider before changing your diet.
