Anti-inflammatory Foods that Keep You Healthy Through Winter and Beyond!
Inflammation is our body’s response to infection or irritation. When we are injured, our immune system will respond by sending white blood cells to the affected area to help it heal. Sometimes, however, our immune system responds when it shouldn’t. This is called “auto-immune.” Food is one irritant that can cause inflammation and miscommunication” in the body.
It is best to consume a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods and minimize foods that cause inflammation. Keep in mind that if you are sensitive to any of the anti-inflammatory foods listed below, they can become inflammatory to you personally.
Inflammatory Foods
Refined sugar
Refined grains
Vegetable oils
Hydrogenated oils
Dairy products
Factory-farmed beef and poultry
Pork
Processed meats
Excess alcohol
Food additives
Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Vegetables
Fruits
Herbs & Spices (see below)
Nuts & Seeds
Fish
Eggs
Avocado & extra virgin olive oil
Red wine (max 1-2 glasses per day)
White, green or oolong tea
Water
Whole grains, beans, legumes, grass-fed beef and free-range poultry are neutral foods. While whole grains can be eaten several times a day to provide nutrition and energy, protein should be the smallest portion of each main meal (palm-sized portion).
Nuts and seeds are anti-inflammatory, and make a great snack or addition to any meal.
Anti-Inflammatory Herbs & Spices
Basil
Cayenne Peppers
Chili Peppers
Cinnamon
Cloves
Cocoa (at least 70% cocoa)
Garlic
Licorice
Mint
Oregano
Parsley
Rosemary
Thyme
Turmeric
By avoiding inflammatory foods and increasing anti-inflammatory food consumption, you can maintain a healthy body during the cold and flu season and beyond.
Would you like further help with a healing diet? Schedule a complimentary wellness consultation with me to discover how simple lifestyle and diet changes can help you live an improved life!