When viruses, bacteria, and other foreign pathogens invade our bodies, our immune system fights off inflammation – changes in blood flow and an onslaught of immune cells that allow it to locate and destroy the invaders. As long as the inflammation quickly recedes when it is no longer needed, this natural process is paramount and healthy.
However, sometimes inflammation persists. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a variety of diseases, including a few cancer and Alzheimer. It is also a driving force in autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes and lupus.
Foods like sodas, sugar, highly processed carbohydrates, and red meat can cause inflammation, while others like fruits, nuts, and fish can relieve it. Although eating only anti-inflammatory foods is unlikely to cure an autoimmune disease or another, the Arthritis Foundation says that for some patients like that with Rheumatoid arthritisit can help relieve relapses. If you want to add more anti-inflammatory foods to your diet, download MedShadow’s anti-inflammatory diet guide Also, check out some of our favorite anti-inflammatory recipes from Instagram.
This orange soup gets some of its bright, warming flavor from spices like garlic, ginger, and cinnamon, all of which have anti-inflammatory properties. Do you prefer a little more guidance on exact quantities? Check this recipe.
This fresh, punchy, colorful salad is full of leafy greens and pomegranate seeds, which are known to contain a variety of antioxidants that help soothe inflammation throughout the body.
These quick-to-cook, easy-to-store treats can help reduce inflammation and your afternoon hunger at the same time.
This sweet and tangy take away meal is often deep fried and cooked with anti-inflammatory ingredients like sugar and flour. However, you can make an anti-inflammatory version at home by grilling the chicken and leaving out these two ingredients. As a bonus, this recipe calls for several anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric and ginger.
You will be satisfied with this shellfish recipe made with simple, unprocessed ingredients.
Blueberries are an antioxidant powerhouse, and basil gives it added flavor as well as anti-inflammatory power.
So many of us love smooth, buttery mashed potatoes as a side dish, but too many starchy vegetables can cause inflammation. If you’re craving classic comfort food, try this velvety cauliflower puree recipe instead.
Antioxidants in raspberries and healthy fats in chia seeds go great with this anti-inflammatory treat.
