Foods to avoid or reduce inflammation

The heatwave has many sequels, and one of the most common ones is inflammation. However, inflammation has come under the spotlight as a contributory factor to some very serious conditions. When it gets out of control it can contribute to heart disease, obesity, and even cancer. Chronic inflammation can even cause conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Ironically, it is actually part of the body’s immune response, and without it, you can’t heal. But when it is excessive, that’s when problems start. Luckily diet can help to reduce inflammation. So we take a look at the foods that can help.

Foods that cause inflammation

First, a word about foods that can aggravate and inflame. Foods high in sugar and saturated fat (especially when these are combined) can encourage inflammation. “They cause overactivity in the immune system, which can lead to joint pain, fatigue, and damage to the blood vessels,” says Scott Zashin, MD, clinical professor at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.

But there are definitely foods that will help to reduce it, and you definitely need to consider adding some of these to your regime.

Foods that help reduce inflammation

Dark leafy greens. Some examples are: kale, spinach, broccoli, etc. They are so wide-ranging, it is hard to put into words how important they are. Firstly, they are an incredibly good source of vitamins and minerals like calcium and iron, also, they contain disease-fighting phytochemicals.

Turmeric. It is a brilliant yellow spice common in Indian cuisine that is widely available. It has been used as a medicine for centuries to treat wounds, infections, colds, and liver disease.

Studies have shown that curcumin, a compound in turmeric, has a pivotal role to play in reducing inflammation in the body.

Other spices that also reduce inflammation are: ginger, cinnamon, cayenne and black pepper.

Oily fish which has Omega-3 fatty acids. Some of the best sources are salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines. 

Foods to avoid…

It’s also worth cutting out or cutting back on refined, white bread, cereal, rice, pasta, milk products and sugar. Whole grains, which tend to have more fibre in them, are better for you.

Final Word

When making any dietary changes, it is always worth getting the advice of a qualified nutritionist.

We hope this information is useful for you. If you have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. If you like this blog, please share!

We are always happy to help.

 

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