Some kinds of inflammation in the body helps
us heal, but chronic inflammation is the root of many modern day ailments and
issues – among them, heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease, according
to Dr. Andrew Weil. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods is a simple and
powerful way to help the body stay balanced, calm and in vibrant health.
We loved sharing this advice from The Beauty
Chef a while back and thought we’d revisit the topic with this useful list of
foods that will encourage great skin, daily detoxification and better overall
health. Most anti-inflammatory foods are also rich in antioxidants – think
leafy greens and bright berries. Many are also high fiber and and full of omega
3s. Find a few favorites and make them a bigger part of your daily diet…
7 POWERFUL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY FOODS
DARK GREEN LEAFY
VEGGIES
Clear out your produce drawer and refill it
with every dark leafy green you can find. Naturally alkalizing and high in
antioxidants, these powerful plants ambush inflammation and optimize our body
functions on a cellular level. Some of our favorite leafy loves include: swiss
chard, mustard greens, turnip tips, dandelion greens, arugula and (of course)
kale.
BERRIES +
POMEGRANATES
Natural foods with a rich red color – like
raspberries, cranberries, blackberries and pomegranates – are famously full of
a class of inflammation-fighting antioxidants called flavonoids. Not only do
they reduce existing inflammation, but they condition our cells to have
healthier responses to (and quicker recoveries from) future inflammation
issues.
SPICES
Turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, garlic, cayenne
and clove are just a few examples of spices that can reduce inflammation and
the pain associated with it. These ingredients have been used in Eastern
Medicine practices for centuries; incorporating them into our cooking is an
easy way to reap their benefits and makes our food taste even better.
COLD WATER FISH
Salmon, sardines and the fish oil
derived from them are all amazing foods for fighting inflammation. They offer a
high concentration of omega-3s and other essential fatty acids which are known
specifically for their anti-inflammatory effects. Get a healthy dose with the
smoked salmon and kale salad recipe below.
FLAXSEEDS
These tiny nutrition power-houses
contain some of the best anti-inflammatory benefits offered by berries and fish.
They’re also easy to integrate into our diets – simply toss some into baked
goods, smoothies or combine 1 tablespoon of ground flax with 3 tablespoons of
water for a healthy vegan egg substitute!
CHIA SEEDS
Loaded up with healthy fats, fiber
and protein, chia seeds can do a million amazing things for our bodies – add
them all together and inflammation doesn’t stand a chance.
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