Inflammation, things that have inflammatory properties and more importantly, “anti-inflammatory” are some hot topics in health and wellness these days. Dive into any health blog, and many supplements, and this will be a front-facing concept.
Obviously, we all hear “causes inflammation,” “inflammatory” or “inflammation” and think… uh oh. That cannot be good!
But, what does all of that *really* mean?!
Inflammation is your body’s way of defending itself against any tissue damage, viruses and bacteria. It is a defense mechanism that is mostly controlled by the immune system. When these bacteria or viruses appear, your body will send white blood cells to the affected site.
This is what can cause redness and swelling.
Chronic inflammation is the immediate, acute response that isn’t enough to actually clear out the virus. =
This can cause your body to start attacking healthy body tissues, and create inflammation in otherwise healthy areas of the body.
The standard things like working out, getting the proper amount of sleep and managing stress can absolutely help fight inflammation in your body.
And, on top of that… This will be brand new, shocking information… but your diet can help in a MAJOR way.
There are a lot of foods that are anti-inflammatory! Things like antioxidants, minerals and essential fatty acids are fantastic for fighting inflammation.
As always, small, gradual changes can make a big impact and in this case, help restore health at a cellular level.
1. Green Leafy Vegetables: Fruits and veggies are rich in antioxidants that restore cellular health and anti-inflammatory flavonoids.
2. Bok Choy: There are 70 antioxidant phenolic substitutes in bok choy, including hydroxycinnamic acid, which scavenges free radicals.
3. Celery: Antioxidants!!!
4. Beets: The antioxidant betalain gives beets their vibrant color, and is VERY anti-inflammatory. Beets can repair cells and provide high levels of potassium and magnesium, which both fight inflammation.