What is an anti-inflammatory diet?
There are two elements of an anti-inflammatory diet: foods to avoid and foods to include. The best anti-inflammatory diet is low in highly processed foods and in foods with unhealthy fats. Reduce your usage of foods such as:
- Fried foods
- Refined carbohydrates
- Saturated fats
- Drinks sweetened with sugar
- Red meat
- Processed meats such as lunch meats, hot dogs, and sausage
Include foods that fight inflammation in different ways. Foods that may reduce inflammation often contain:
Consider these foods, which contain several anti-inflammatory substances:
1. Onions
The pungent compounds that give onions their taste and smell are anti-inflammatory. Onions have fiber and vitamin C for additional benefits. They are low in calories, and their flavor can make other healthy foods more palatable.
2. Carrots
Brightly colored vegetables are usually high in healthy plant compounds. The orange hue of carrots indicates beta-carotene. Carrots also contain vitamin A and fiber, which fight inflammation:
3. Olive oil
Experts say the Mediterranean diet is a good example of an anti-inflammatory way of eating. Most Mediterranean-style diets include olive oil. Besides being a healthy fat, olive oil contains oleocanthal, a special anti-inflammatory compound. Choose extra-virgin olive oil, as it is less processed and retains more nutrients. Keep in mind, though, that all oils are high-calorie foods.
4. Beans
Beans are a low-cost source of protein and contain anti-inflammatory compounds. They are rich in minerals such as iron, magnesium, zinc, and potassium. They are also one of the most fiber-rich foods you can eat. Thanks to the wide variety of beans, it’s easy to find a type you like.
5. Walnuts
Nuts contain selenium and vitamin E, both inflammation fighters. Walnuts are especially valuable because they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
6. Blueberries
Intensely colored fruits such as blueberries have compounds called anthocyanins that may reduce inflammation. Blueberries also contain a variety of vitamins and minerals. They are a delicious way to get one of your nine recommended daily servings of fruits and vegetables.
7. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are low in calories and high in vitamin C, which fights inflammation. They are categorized as being in the nightshade family. Some people believe that nightshade vegetables increase their inflammation, but no studies have shown this to be true. If you eat tomatoes and other nightshades, track your symptoms to see if they are helpful or harmful to you.
8. Salmon
Most Americans get less than half the recommended amount of omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon and other fatty fish are the best sources of these acids. Although these acids are called fatty, the fish are relatively lean and make a good addition to your diet. Some people are concerned about mercury in fish. Mercury is mostly a concern for children and for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, though. To be safe, eat no more than 12 ounces a week of canned salmon.
9. Flaxseed
If you don’t like fish, you can get omega-3s from flaxseed. Flaxseed may help with many inflammatory conditions, including heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and arthritis. You can also use flaxseed oil, but the oil does not provide all the benefits of the seeds themselves.
Not that flaxseed contains phytoestrogens, plant substances that act similarly to estrogen. If you have hormone-related conditions, ask your doctor before using flaxseed.
10. Spinach
Dark green leafy vegetables are powerhouses of nutrition, and spinach may be the best. A single serving contains several times the recommended daily portion of vitamin K, a potent inflammation fighter. Spinach is also high in vitamin A and vitamin C. It contains a variety of minerals, including manganese, iron, magnesium, copper, and calcium. All this, and it’s low in calories, too.
11. Cherries
Cherries have antioxidants like blueberries and other fruits with a lot of pigment. Cherries have another benefit as well. Research shows they increase the amount of uric acid in urine. This helps people with gout, an inflammatory disease.
12. Turmeric
Look in the spice department for turmeric or check the produce section for turmeric roots. People have used this interesting plant for medicinal purposes for many years. It contains the anti-inflammatory compound curcumin.
Turmeric is an ingredient in many curries. You can also use it in teas and other hot drinks, such as golden milk.
13. Mango
The vibrant hues of mango tell you that it is high in antioxidants. One serving provides 100 percent of your daily need for vitamin C. It also contains vitamin A and vitamin K and more minerals than most fruits.
14. Brown rice
You need fiber for an anti-inflammatory diet, and whole grains are a good source. Consider brown rice. It’s gluten-free, in case you have celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, and it has a delicious nutty flavor. The drawback to brown rice used to be its long cooking time, but now, you can find quick-cooking varieties.
15. Brussels sprouts
Once one of the most maligned vegetables in America, Brussels sprouts have won many fans. For the best flavor, roast or grill them or shred them and put them in a salad. Brussels sprouts are high in vitamins C and K, both powerful antioxidants. They are low in calories and contain several important minerals.
Source: http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=281369
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