Inflammation is a process by which your body protects itself against foreign substances or injury. However, if the inflammation continues for a long time, it can do more harm than good. The good news is by controlling your diet you may be able to reduce inflammation. Here’s a list of superfoods that help fight inflammation:
- Berries: These naturally sweet, high-fiber foods are rich in antioxidants that neutralize free radicals which cause inflammation. They can be eaten plain as a snack or added to cereals, yogurt, and smoothies.
- Leafy green vegetables: Spinach, kale, Swiss chard, dandelion greens and other leafy green vegetables are not only full of antioxidants but are also alkalizing to the body. They are packed with nutrients such as folate, fiber, vitamins A, C, E, K, and a variety of minerals that nourish the body on a cellular level and reduce overall body inflammation.
- Fatty Fish: Salmon, trout, sardines, and mackerel are all high in essential omega-3 fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory properties and cannot be produced by your body. According to research studies, omega 3 is beneficial for many autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, psoriasis, and ulcerative colitis.
- Avocadoes: They are full of monounsaturated fat (good fat) that helps reduce cholesterol and limit inflammation in the joints. Additionally, avocadoes also help in blood clotting, brain development, and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
- Cruciferous vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts are jam-packed with antioxidants, vitamins K and C, potassium, magnesium, and fiber. Studies demonstrate that the compound sulforaphane present in broccoli can detoxify harmful chemicals present in the environment that trigger inflammation.
- Garlic: Besides adding tremendous flavor to any type of recipe, garlic provides wideranging health benefits. It contains anti-inflammatory chemicals that inhibits histamine and sulfur compounds to boost your immunity.
With the month of March celebrated as National Nutrition Month, now is the right time to commit to healthy eating by incorporating at least some of the superfoods listed above to your diet.
At North Central Surgical Center, our mission is to treat each and every one of our patients, and their families, as if they were our own family member. Each patient, each family, each and every time.
