Some kinds of inflammation in the body helps us heal, but chronic inflammation is the root of many modern day ailments and issues – among them, heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease, according to Dr. Andrew Weil. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods is a simple and powerful way to help the body stay balanced, calm and in vibrant health.
We loved sharing this advice from The Beauty Chef a while back and thought we’d revisit the topic with this useful list of foods that will encourage great skin, daily detoxification and better overall health. Most anti-inflammatory foods are also rich in antioxidants – think leafy greens and bright berries. Many are also high fiber and and full of omega 3s. Find a few favorites and make them a bigger part of your daily diet…
7 Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Dark Green Leafy Veggies
Clear out your produce drawer and refill it with every dark leafy green you can find. Naturally alkalizing and high in antioxidants, these powerful plants ambush inflammation and optimize our body functions on a cellular level. Some of our favorite leafy loves include: swiss chard, mustard greens, turnip tips, dandelion greens, arugula and (of course) kale. Check out the link below to read up on the benefits of each and try this kale pesto recipe for easy access!
Berries + Pomegranates
Natural foods with a rich red color – like raspberries, cranberries, blackberries and pomegranates – are famously full of a class of inflammation-fighting antioxidants called flavonoids. Not only do they reduce existing inflammation, but they condition our cells to have healthier responses to (and quicker recoveries from) future inflammation issues. Learn more about the health properties of pomegranates, specifically, from the link below and try this strawberry nice cream stat.
Spices
Turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, garlic, cayenne and clove are just a few examples of spices that can reduce inflammation and the pain associated with it. These ingredients have been used in Eastern Medicine practices for centuries; incorporating them into our cooking (like with the spiced carrot soup recipe) is an easy way to reap their benefits and makes our food taste even better.
Cold Water Fish
Salmon, sardines and the fish oil derived from them are all amazing foods for fighting inflammation. They offer a high concentration of omega-3s and other essential fatty acids which are known specifically for their anti-inflammatory effects. Get a healthy dose with the smoked salmon and kale salad recipe below.
Flaxseeds
These tiny nutrition power-houses contain some of the best anti-inflammatory benefits offered by berries and fish. They’re also easy to integrate into our diets – simply toss some into baked goods, smoothies or combine 1 tablespoon of ground flax with 3 tablespoons of eater for a healthy vegan egg substitute! Obsessed with this flaxseed bread recipe too.
Chia Seeds
Loaded up with healthy fats, fiber and protein, chia seeds can do a million amazing things for our bodies – add them all together and inflammation doesn’t stand a chance. Read up on the magic of chia below. then try these insane chia breakie bowls.
