Anti-Inflammatories and Why They Matter
If you're concerned about fighting the deteriorating effects of aging in your own body, then one of the most important things you can do is educate yourself of what foods and supplements are anti-inflammatory and which ones increase inflammation in the body.
Why is this so important?
Inflammation is the way the body fights off things that are harmful, like injuries, toxin and infections. When you are injured or there are damaged or harmful properties in the body, your body will release antibodies and proteins to fight those things. BUT, what happens when your body goes into overdrive and starts fighting healthy cells? This is what happens when your body has too much inflammation, so much so that it's fighting healthy cells as well.
How does inflammation relate to aging?
Inflammation exacerbates ALL aging issues throughout the body, hair thinning, hair loss, loss of elasticity in the skin, energy levels, everything that is bad about aging is made worse with inflammation. An anti-inflammatory diet can actually be so effective that it can stop hair thinning, increase skin elasticity, energy levels can increase and so on. You may be spending on money on cures and treatments that could be resolved by simply sticking to a more anti-inflammatory diet.
What foods are inflammatory?
Refined carbohydrates, processed meats (burgers, hot dogs), sodas, fast food/fried food (fries,etc), candy, sweets, etc., anything with trans-fat, There are also some studies that suggest that dairy and gluten might be inflammatory, but it has not been proven for sure and is still controversial.
25 Foods That Fight Inflammation
Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound.
Ginger: Has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants that combat inflammation.
Fatty fish (e.g., salmon, sardines): Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation.
Leafy greens (e.g., kale, spinach): High in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Broccoli: Contains sulforaphane, which helps fight inflammation.
Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
Olive oil: Contains oleocanthal, which has anti-inflammatory effects.
Green tea: Contains polyphenols with anti-inflammatory properties.
Avocado: Contains monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene, which has anti-inflammatory benefits.
Almonds: Packed with healthy fats and antioxidants.
Chia seeds: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.
Garlic: Contains sulfur compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects.
Tart cherries: Known for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Dark chocolate: Contains flavonoids with anti-inflammatory benefits.
Oranges: High in vitamin C, which helps combat inflammation.
Beets: Rich in antioxidants and betalains, which have anti-inflammatory effects.
Flaxseeds: High in omega-3 fatty acids and lignans, which reduce inflammation.
Pineapple: Contains bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties.
Papaya: Contains papain, an enzyme that aids in digestion and reduces inflammation.
Cinnamon: Contains compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Sweet potatoes: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Mushrooms: Certain types, like shiitake and maitake, have anti-inflammatory properties.
Yogurt: Contains probiotics that promote a healthy gut and reduce inflammation.