Inflammation is the body's natural response to tissue injury. High levels of inflammation have been associated with medical conditions and diseases. Although medications are used to fight inflammation, research indicates that consuming the right supplements can also reduce inflammation.
ALA
Alpha linolenic acid is an omega-3 fatty acid that research shows has positive effects on inflammation. In a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, subjects following a diet rich in alpha linolenic acid reduced their risk for cardiovascular disease. (Reference 1) Researchers reported that alpha linolenic acid decreases the risk by lowering C-reactive protein, a biomarker for inflammation. (Reference 1) Furthermore, consuming this supplement also decreases triglycerides and total cholesterol. (Reference 1)
Vitamin C
Like alpha linolenic acid, vitamin C lowers body inflammation by decreasing C-reactive protein. According to Science Daily, subjects with elevated C-reactive protein levels ingesting vitamin C for two months lowered their C-reactive protein levels compared to those taking a placebo. (Reference 2) In addition, researchers noted that the effects of vitamin C on C-reactive protein were similar to those seen in cholesterol-lowering statins. (Reference 2)
Turmeric
In a study published in Arthritis and Rheumatism, researchers investigated the effects of turmeric extract as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. (Reference 3) The results reported that turmeric extract was an effective treatment due to its ability to inhibit joint inflammation and joint destruction. (Reference 3) The researchers report that turmeric works by blocking the activation of genes that cause inflammation. (Reference 3)
Ginger
Research shows that ginger has anti-inflammatory properties. Scientists studied the effects of ginger on muscle-induced inflammation. (Reference 4) According to Science Daily, subjects consuming garlic supplementation for 11 days decreased exercise induced pain compared to those taking a placebo. (Reference 4)
References
- Journal of Nutrition: Dietary -Linolenic Acid Reduces Inflammatory and Lipid Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Hypercholesterolemic Men and Women
- Science Daily: Vitamin C Lowers Levels Of Inflammation Biomarker Considered Predictor Of Heart Disease
- Arthritis Rheumatism: Efficacy and mechanism of action of turmeric supplements in the treatment of experimental arthritis
- Science Daily: Daily Ginger Consumption Eases Muscle Pain by 25 Percent, Study Suggests
