Your immune system turns ‘on’ every time a ‘foreign stuff’ invades it. It’s triggered by chemicals, toxins and poisons. How does it work? The whole thing starts off with an inflammatory response, and that’s what helps you to survive.
The problem occurs when the inflammation gets out of control. Your body starts releasing anti-inflammatory hormones despite the fact that it’s not threatened. Immunity issues are the primary cause of common diseases like arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, depression, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
We’re told that pharmaceutical solutions are the only remedy for our problem. Truth is, medication makes you feel even worse than before. Unlike common drugs, anti-inflammatory foods can prevent and treat inflammation. “Many experimental studies have shown that components of foods or beverages may have anti-inflammatory effects,” confirms Dr. Frank Hu of the Harvard School of Public Health.
Some foods can affect the work of your immune system and the inflammatory response, and the intestinal wall supports this process. According to a 2017 study released in the journal Inflammatory Bowel Disease, some foods can treat the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
“Doctors are learning that one of the best ways to quell inflammation lies not in the medicine cabinet, but in the refrigerator.” – Harvard Health Publishing
Top 12 foods that relieve pain and inflammation
Avocados are referred to as superfoods. This nutrient-dense food is rich in fiber, magnesium, and potassium. Avocados enhance digestion, and improve the health of your heart and nerves. Scientists confirm that a serving of avocado can help you reduce inflammation markers. Any increase in blood protein levels indicates reduced levels of inflammation.
Berries are packed with antioxidants. Eat more blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and strawberries. They are all good for you. There is a strong connection between berries and lower risks of developing a disease, thanks to their anti-inflammation properties. Berries are good for your immunity and also prevent high blood pressure (hypertension).
- Brown rice
Unlike white rice, brown rice doesn’t trigger an inflammation. Moreover, it’s viewed as anti-inflammatory food. Magnesium gives brown rice its power to suppress inflammation. This mineral is known for its ability to relax blood vessels, muscles, and nerves.
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant found in broccoli. It reduces the risk of arthritis. This antioxidant is also found in asparagus, avocado, grapefruit, tomatoes and other fruits and veggies.
- Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants. These reduce inflammation almost instantly. Dark chocolate balances your intestinal flora, and you can use it as a probiotic. However, you can only get the benefits if you eat chocolate with a minimum of 70% of cacao. Always read labels!
Experts at the Arthritis Foundation say that arthritis is “a disease of inflammation.” They believe that fatty fish is one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory food ever known to mankind. Fatty fish is rich in omega-3 fats, and these obstruct pro-inflammation immune cells. Vegans and vegetarians can use flaxseed and quinoa to get enough omega-3 fatty acids.
Gingerol is the most powerful bioactive compound in ginger. It has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The spicy root relieves muscle pain and soreness, as confirmed in several studies.
According to researchers, foods rich in vitamin K reduce inflammation and inflammatory markers in blood. Kale is the richest source of vitamin K, and provides 443% of the recommended daily allowance. Mustard greens, Swiss chard, collard greens, natto and spinach are also rich in this vitamin.
Harvard Health Publications, the publishing branch of Harvard Medical School, suggest that nuts reduce inflammation markers and lower the risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Nuts are abundant in tryptophan, an amino acid that relieves pain sensitivity.
A single orange can give you over 230 phytochemicals and flavonoids. Flavonoids are also found in tea and wine, and offer an array of benefits. These are abundant in anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer and antiviral compounds. Phytochemicals prevent cellular damage.
According to a study released in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Chinese women who consume soy every day have 25% less inflammatory markers when compared to women who don’t eat soy. The result shows that soy is a powerful anticancer food. Of course, we’re focusing on the organic product, not the GMO stuff that’s sold in our country.
Curcumin is the active ingredient of turmeric. It’s probably one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory compound out there. Curcumin reduces inflammation and relieves pain. Scientists have confirmed that less than a teaspoon of turmeric can reduce the same pain as 800-1000 milligrams of ibuprofen. Can you believe that? Always combine it with black pepper, as it increased the bioavailability of curcumin.
Foods to avoid
You can’t just take a teaspoon of turmeric and excuse your intention to eat that hamburger. There’s a list of foods you should avoid, and you better stick to it!
- Refined carbs (bread, white rice, sweet stuff)
- Sweetened drinks
- Processed meats
- Hydrogenated vegetable oil
- Fried foods
Source: Power Of Positivity