Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injuries and can help fight off infection and promote healing. But when you have too much inflammation, or battle chronic inflammation, is when you start to have a problem.
Inflammation is bad. Anti-inflammatory foods are good. We’ve all heard it. Add a handful of blueberries to your morning oatmeal. Eat lots of green, leafy vegetables. Snack on some nuts. But why?
Contrary to popular belief, inflammation isn’t entirely bad. In fact, it’s the body’s natural response to injuries and can help fight off infection and promote healing. But when you have too much inflammation or battle chronic inflammation, you start to have a problem. Inflammation can trigger a whole slew of disorders such as asthma, cancer, diabetes, atherosclerosis, obesity, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune diseases, and more. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can help promote a healthy weight as well as prevent and combat chronic health issues. If you’re looking for some healthy foods to snack on, look no further than these seven anti-inflammatory foods.
Blueberries
Blueberries are a low calorie food that are packed with vitamins and an antioxidant called flavonoids that work to fight inflammation. Blueberries contain fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese. Try adding a handful to your morning oatmeal or yogurt.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens such as kale, arugula, and spinach are loaded with fiber, phytonutrients, and vitamins. They also contain a compound called quercetin, which has been found to have similar effects as an anti-inflammatory drug. If you’re looking to add more greens to your diet, swap the sandwich for a salad, throw a handful or greens into your smoothie, or add a side salad to your meals.
Almonds
Rich in fiber, protein, and fat, almonds make a great snack. Additionally, almonds are a great source of antioxidants, contain a high amount of vitamin E, and they contain lots of magnesium, which can regulate proinflammatory gene expression. Throw a handful of almonds into your bag and snack on the post session.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is a great anti-inflammatory oil to cook with. Olive oil contains antioxidants, mainly oleocanthal, which has been found to work like ibuprofen. Additionally, olive oil is rich in healthy and monosaturated fats and contains omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids.
Salmon
Salmon is another food that is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are essential for brain health and have been proven helpful in fighting numerous health conditions. Fatty acids also help to fight inflammation. Throw some salmon on the grill or purchase some salmon jerky to reap the benefits while on the go.
Avocados
Not only are avocados delicious, but they are also jam packed with monounsaturated fats, a.k.a. healthy fats. These healthy fats help promote brain health, energy, and help fight inflammation. Additionally, avocados contain vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin E, manganese, selenium, and zinc. Enjoy them plain, add them to tacos, or toss them in a smoothie.
Garlic
While you may not want to snack on garlic, it is loaded with health benefits and is a great flavor enhancer for lots of meals. Garlic is naturally anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and anti-viral. Can you say trifecta?
The Inertia is in no way a medical authority nor a health expert. Consult a medical professional before making any major dietary of lifestyle changes.
