Until recently, most people associated inflammation with a limited number of health conditions, such as arthritis, sore joints, broken bones.
But thanks to increased scientific study, we’re learning more about inflammation’s role and how it may be a key contributor to heart disease, stroke, cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, Alzheimer’s, and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Research indicates certain foods may help reduce it. Your chiropractor believes in taking a proactive approach to preventing inflammation. By choosing the right foods, you increase your chances of stopping inflammation now and in the future..
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Some foods that are most beneficial to a balanced diet are:
1. Vegetables — When it comes to putting the brakes on inflammation, the old saying “Eat your veggies” takes on a special importance. Add to your plate more green vegetables, such as kale and spinach. For veggies with a pungent flavor, try garlic or onions. As for starchier vegetables, choose sweet potatoes over white potatoes.
2. Fruits – For reasons we don’t completely understand, some fruits may actually increase inflammation. For example, banana and mango — rich in nutrients — are not recommended for an anti-inflammatory diet. Go for raspberries, blueberries and strawberries as they contain anti-inflammatory phytochemicals. Other fruits to include are pink grapefruit, cantaloupe and apples.
3. Whole grains – Brown rice and bulgur wheat are better choices than highly refined products like white rice or pasta. Generally, the less processing food goes through, the better it is for your health.
4. Legumes & nuts – If you want to avoid pro-inflammatory protein sources like red meat, these foods are a good alternative. Try soybeans, lentils, and kidney beans. Nuts, such as almonds and walnuts, are loaded with essential fatty acids that reduce inflammation.
5. Spices – You can spice up your food to cool down inflammation. Add curry, turmeric or ginger to your recipes.
6. Fish is probably the superstar of anti-inflammatory foods. Its richness in Omega 3 fatty acids help stop inflammatory producing proteins called cytokines. Choose wild caught salmon over farmed salmon. Other good choices are halibut, sardines, herring and rainbow trout.
This is some information to get you started on your health journey!
All the staff here at Victoria Park Rehab Centre wishes you a healthy and happy first week of June!
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