Discover the Anti-Inflammatory Way of Eating
Did you know that medicine isn’t the only way to fight inflammation?
In my years of seeking out ways to eliminate inflammation, I have come to the conclusion that our diet plays the MOST important role.
Want to learn more about the health consequences of chronic inflammation, and what you can do to stay healthy?
Keep reading!!!
Basic Facts about Inflammation
1. Understand healthy inflammation.
We need to remember that some inflammation is natural and beneficial! Short-term swelling or fever are visible signs that your body is repairing itself after you break a bone or catch a cold. Our bodies are designed so intricately!
2. Reduce chronic inflammation.
On the other hand, ongoing inflammation causes tissue damage. Experts believe it’s an underlying factor associated with many health issues including Alzheimer’s, fibromyalgia, arthritis, and diabetes, and more.
Eat to Avoid or Lessen Chronic Inflammation
1. Eat a well-balanced diet!
A well-balanced diet will have a huge impact on reducing swollen tissues; however, there are many many “diets” out there touting claims to heal inflammation. It’s important to learn what foods actually trigger inflammation in YOUR own body - as no two bodies are alike!!! There is not ONE diet guaranteed to eliminate inflammation for you. That’s why it’s so important to work closely with a nutritionist or dietary expert who can help you sort through all the things. Don’t let Dr. Google steer you a dozen different directions.
2. Consume more produce.
Plant products contain phytochemicals that promote tissue repair. Aim for at least 5 servings a day of vegetables and fruits.
3. Minimize processed foods.
Refined carbohydrates, added sugars, and saturated fats have the opposite effect of earthborn foods. Drink water instead of soda. Trade-in white rice and pasta for brown rice and whole-grain versions.
4. Go with fish.
Fatty fish is loaded with heart-friendly Omega-3 fatty acids. My favorite choices include salmon, mackerel, and trout.
5. Spice it up.
Give your salt shaker a rest. Experiment with a wide range of spices famous for their anti-inflammatory properties. Browse your grocer’s spice section for turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon. You can even grow your own garlic! Ever heard of golden milk? Amazing anti-inflammatory benefits!
(as I’ve mentioned before, the best cinnamon is CEYLON, seriously soooo beneficial, and incredibly tasty too!)
6. Consider supplements.
While it’s best to acquire most of your vitamins and minerals from food, supplements can fill in certain deficiencies. For example, fish oil can provide Omega-3’s if you’re a vegan or just don’t like the taste of sardines.
More Anti-Inflammation Practices
1. Watch your weight.
Experts debate whether obesity causes inflammation or if it’s the other way around. Whatever the case, the two conditions are closely linked. Shedding excess pounds often relieves arthritis pain and other symptoms.
2. Move more.
Physical activity promotes weight loss and inhibits inflammation. Even gentle exercise like walking or yoga is very effective.
3. Manage stress.
Maybe there’s a connection between your smartphone that makes you available 24/7 and chronic inflammation that doesn’t know when to shut itself off. Make relaxation a priority. Use your vacation days and unwind with daily meditation or a warm bath.
4. Be patient.
While anti-inflammatory medications often relieve symptoms immediately, lifestyle changes can take longer to yield results. It may take a few days to see the first results, and several weeks or months to achieve dramatic progress. The bonus is that there will be no adverse side effects!
Fight disease while you enjoy a healthy diet! Anti-inflammation eating is a lifestyle choice that can help you lead a longer and more active life, especially when you combine good nutrition with other positive habits like regular exercise and good quality sleep.
You’re clearly on the right path if you’ve stumbled upon my website...thank you for stopping by!!