Inflammation is the body's natural response to irritation, injury or infection, and often occurs in cases of cancer. Symptoms of inflammation include pain, swelling and red skin coloration.
Inflammation can be controlled with an appropriate diet, which in turn will reduce the risk of heart attacks, cancer and other chronic diseases. Sugar, excessively fatty items, fast food, high-fat meats and junk food must be strictly avoided, because these foods can increase inflammation levels in the body. Unhealthy saturated fats, such as those found in butter, should be consumed in very minimal quantities. Nitrites used for preparing lunch meats and hot dogs are a definite no-no, as they've been shown to increase inflammation. Sugar-rich soft drinks, pastries, presweetened cereals and candy are also pro-inflammatory foods.
Anti-Inflammatory foods--which decrease the inflammatory levels in the body and therefore lower the risk of cardiac diseases and cancer--include cold-water fish (salmon and tuna, for example), walnuts, flax seeds, canola oil and pumpkin seeds. These foods are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are very helpful in reducing inflammation. Olive oil, rice bran oil, grape-seed oil and walnut oil are healthy oils packed with antioxidants that help fight against inflammation. The human body also needs good protein sources that can be obtained from lean poultry, fish and seafood, nuts, legumes and seeds. Soy protein also reduces inflammation, and can be consumed through soybeans, tofu and soy milk.
Bread, cereal and pasta made out of whole grains are also anti-inflammatory, and are good sources of fiber. Fresh whole fruits and green leafy vegetables are excellent sources of dietary fiber as well. Blueberries and strawberries are full of anti-inflammatory phytochemicals and antioxidants that reduce the risk of cancer, as they fight against inflammation.
Inflammation, Diet and Cancer
Jul 26, 2011 | By
