Sunday, September 14, 2014

What To Know About Natural Anti Inflammatory Foods

By Kerri Stout


The human body is complex and has a variety of processes. Inflammation is the body's natural response to attack or injury. In many instances, this is considered entirely healthy and normal. There are instances in which inflammation is not helpful and can be quite destructive, especially when the immune system starts to attack itself, which is the case for those with autoimmune diseases. Whole-body inflammation is imperceptible, chronic and low-level, but is known to have serious effects on the body over time. This is why many people are interested in incorporating natural anti inflammatory foods into their diets.

There are plenty of food items that can be used to naturally reduce inflammation in the body. Likewise, there are many things to avoid when on a mission to reduce inflammation, such as foods with high saturated fat and sugar content. Plenty of resources have information on this topic and can be used by those looking to naturally fix this problem.

Omega-3 fatty acids have benefits when it comes to this issue. These are typically found in fatty fish, such as sardines, mackerel, tuna and salmon. For the best results, people are encouraged to consume this a couple times a week and do so in a healthy way. Those who do not enjoy the taste of fish might benefit in the same way from taking fish oil supplements. However, those who have a diet too high in omega-6 fatty acids may fin that these supplements increase the inflammation and do not reduce it.

Whole grains are also encouraged. Unlike pasta, rice, cereal and white bread, these can prevent harmful inflammation. This is because they contain fiber that helps reduce the level of c-reactive protein, which is used to indicate the amount of inflammation in the blood. Dark leafy greens have vitamin E, which plays a key role in preventing cytokines, pro-inflammatory components in the body. Spinach, broccoli, collard greens and cruciferous vegetables typically have a higher concentration of minerals and vitamins, and can be prepared in many ways.

Many people use nuts as an anti-inflammatory. These are high in vitamin E, calcium and fiber. Not only can they reduce problems of inflammation, they can fix issues caused by increased and prolonged inflammation. There have been studies done that suggest soy is good for this purpose. People are recommended to consume minimally processed soy that does not include additives and has not been processed so much that it loses its benefits.

Despite dairy being known as a trigger for inflammatory diseases, low-fat dairy may be beneficial for lowering inflammation. Peppers are another healthy food option for those wanting to fix this problem through diet alone. Tomatoes, also a nightshade vegetable, may help reduce inflammation in certain people. These are high in lycopene, which is ideal for handling inflammation in the lungs.

Beets are high in antioxidants, which make them great for fighting numerous cancers and diseases. They also have betalains, vitamin C and fiber. Both turmeric and ginger are spices used in the cuisine of Asian and Indian cultures and are known for being anti-inflammatory.

Turmeric is said to shut of NF-kappa B, which is a protein the body that regulates the immune system. Onions and garlic are great for their immune-boosting properties and can be added to many dishes. Other items to include in such a diet: olive oil, berries and cherries.




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