The Best Foods to Eat for Inflammation
Inflammation is defined as a response by body tissues to injury or irritation. It may be characterized by pain, swelling and/or redness. Inflammation underlies many conditions and diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and arthritis. Dietary patterns and even specific foods may be linked to the inflammatory process. Consuming certain plant foods as well as healthy fats, herbs and spices is associated with a decrease in inflammation.
Fruits and Vegetables
Phytochemicals are compounds found in plant foods that offer disease-fighting, antioxidant benefits. Two groups of phytochemicals play a role in modulating the inflammatory process. They are the carotenoids and flavonoids. These phytochemicals are found in abundance in colorful fruits and vegetables and should be consumed liberally to help reduce inflammation. Carotenoid-rich foods include:
- carrots
- tomatoes
- sweet potatoes
- winter squash
- apricots
- pumpkin
- cantaloupe
Flavonoid-rich foods include
- berries
- citrus fruits
- purple grapes
- dark leafy-green vegetables
- soybeans
- beets
- tea
- red wine
One specific flavonoid, quercetin, may be particularly helpful for reducing inflammation. Foods that offer quercetin include apples and onions. Pineapple is unique in that it contains a protein-digesting enzyme called bromelain, which is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent.
- Phytochemicals are compounds found in plant foods that offer disease-fighting, antioxidant benefits.
Omega-3 Fats, Olive Oil and Nuts
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Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory 1. That is because this class of nutrients is a precursor for anti-inflammtory compounds in the body. Extra virgin olive oil is another food that offers a different type of healthy fatty acid (monounsaturated fats). Extra virgin olive oil is rich in two very unique antioxidant nutrients, called oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol, which may reduce inflammation. In addition to being an excellent source of omega-3 fats, walnuts increase the amount of an anti-inflammatory chemical in the body known as adiponectin. Adiponectin is particularly beneficial for reducing inflammation associated with cardiovascular disease.
- Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory 1.
- In addition to being an excellent source of omega-3 fats, walnuts increase the amount of an anti-inflammatory chemical in the body known as adiponectin.
Anti-Inflammatory Spices
Curcumin is the orange-yellow component of turmeric and is a spice frequently found in curry powder. According to a study published in January 2007 by the "Journal of Clinical Immunology," curcumin has been proven in the last 20 years to be a potent immune system promoter. It also reduces the expression of many pro-inflammatory compounds in the body. Cloves contain two anti-inflammatory flavonoid phytochemicals called kaempferol and rhamnetin. Ginger also contains potent anti-inflammatory compounds known as gingerols. They are particularly beneficial for decreasing inflammation in both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Curcumin is the orange-yellow component of turmeric and is a spice frequently found in curry powder.
- Cloves contain two anti-inflammatory flavonoid phytochemicals called kaempferol and rhamnetin.
Related Articles
References
- "International Journal of Vitamin and Nutrition Research"; Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Plant-Based Foods and of Their Constituents; B. Watzl; December 2008
- "Annals of Nutrition & Metabolism"; Effects of Fat and Fatty Acid Intake on Inflammatory and Immune Responses: A Critical Review; C. Galli and P.C. Calder; Sept. 15, 2009
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Writer Bio
Michele Turcotte is a registered, licensed dietitian, and a certified personal trainer with the National Academy of Sports Medicine. She has more than 12 years of experience in clinical and corporate settings, and has extensive experience in one-on-one diet counseling and meal planning. She has written freelance food and nutrition articles for Trouve Publishing Inc. since 2004.