Mar 8, 2018

Inflammation-Fighting Foods That Improve QOL

by RidgeCrest Herbals

When it comes to having the best Quality of Life (QOL), pain/inflammation and lack of energy are at the top of the list of things that can affect how you feel and live. One thing you can be aware of that will help you with both of these issues is eating a diet high in foods containing anti-inflammatory properties. Here is a list of foods that are known to fight inflammation, as well as a list of foods to avoid so that you can have more movement, energy and improve your overall QOL.

Foods to Add:

Dark green, broad leafy greens: As well as being good for anti-inflammatory purposes, greens contain some of the highest amounts of nutrients available.

Fresh Pineapple: This delicious food is full of the enzyme bromelain, which works on inflammation by blocking metabolites which cause inflammation.

Salmon: High in Omega 3, which is one of the most highly researched natural ingredients to help fight inflammation. There are other foods high in healthy fats such as other types of fish, nuts, avocados, or olive oil that also contain anti-inflammatory properties.

Beets: Besides being delicious, this root is filled with antioxidants that are good for supporting healthy cells. They contain magnesium which is important because magnesium deficiency is linked to inflammatory build-up.

Spices: Turmeric and ginger are a couple of common spices that are often used for cooking and can be extremely beneficial in fighting inflammation.

Foods to Avoid:

Refined sugar: It might be silly to have this on the list because we all know the negative effects eating too much sugar has on our health. Sugar, especially refined sugar, is directly linked to inflammatory conditions. Try eliminating it from your diet, or use only moderately at most. It will not take long for your body to thank you!

Gluten: You don't need to have an established disease for gluten to cause your body stress. In fact, around 30% of Americans have cut gluten out of their diets and report having better health. Gluten-free replacement foods are getting lots of attention and the taste and quality are improving all the time.

Trans Fatty Acids: Trans fats are not in a natural form for your body to be able to digest properly. Not only do they mess with the lining of cells (really bad), they set off all sorts of inflammation markers.

Dairy: Certain dairy products can be high in fats, sugars, and other chemicals or substances that can be harmful to health. Over-consumption of dairy may lead to systemic inflammation in the body.

It's hard to get away from cheap processed foods, but improving health does not need to be about eating 100% perfect, right from the get-go! Start small, with one or two of the above-recommended changes, and you’ll be on your way to being free of inflammation!