In the short-term, inflammation results swelling when you have a cut or a fever when you have an infection. This is a healthy and normal response because it means your immune system is doing its job to fight off invaders. However, when inflammation is a chronic physical response, it can lead to problems such as persistent allergic sniffling and itching, stiffness in arthritis and even spreading of cancer cells, according to the Johns Hopkins News-Letter. Some foods may help reduce inflammation.
Colorful Fruits and Vegetables
Inflammation in the body produces cell-damaging molecules called free radicals. Many fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants, which help protect your body from the long-term effects of free radicals. Further research shows that other compounds in fresh produce, such as the sulforaphane in broccoli and cabbage, may help directly suppress inflammation in cells, as noted in the Johns Hopkins News-Letter. To get the most from the fruits and vegetables you consume, focus on antioxidant-rich varieties, which tend to be more vibrant in color. Examples include berries, carrots, sweet potatoes, yellow and red bell peppers, spinach, kale, citrus fruits and red and purple grapes.
Fish and Olive Oil
Whereas diets high in trans and saturated fats can promote inflammation in the body, some research shows that a diet rich in monounsaturated fats can reduce inflammation, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. Foods that contain these healthy fats include olive oil and fish. Monounsaturated fats are thought to help protect against inflammation because they contain antioxidants known as polyphenols. Aim for at least two 3 oz. servings of fish each week and emphasize fatty varieties such as salmon and tuna. To increase your olive oil intake, use it as a replacement for butter when preparing food and combine it with vinegar for a nutritious bread dip.
Flaxseeds and Walnuts
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats that are thought to help reduce the inflammatory response in the body. Flaxseeds, flaxseed oil, walnuts, walnut oil and canola oil are rich in the omega-3 fatty acid ALA. The omega-3s, EPA and DHA, are found in oily fish and fish oils, which also happen to be rich in monounsaturated fats. Omega-6 fatty acids -- found in foods such as corn oil, soybean oil and animal-based foods -- are also important in the diet when balanced with omega-3s. However, some varieties may promote inflammation in the body and the American diet tends to contain 14 to 25 times more omega-6 fatty acids than omega-3s, according to the Linus Pauling Institute.
Other Lean Proteins
Many lean protein sources such as lean poultry, fatty fish, soy, tofu, tempeh and legumes may have anti-inflammatory properties. A 2005 analysis of information in the Third National Health Nutrition and Examination Survey found that higher intake of the amino acid arginine -- found in eggs, fish, poultry and nuts -- can reduce levels of C-reactive protein in the blood. This protein levels rise in response to inflammation in the body, so lower levels may suggest reduced inflammation.
References
- Linus Pauling Institute; Overview of Inflammation; Victoria J. Drake, Ph.D.; Aug. 2010
- The Johns Hopkins News-Letter; Plant Antioxidants Also Fight Inflammation; Ann Want; February 14, 2010
- "Today" Health; Feeling Stiff? Foods Can Ease the Pain; Joy Bauer; April 18, 2007
- "Nutrition"; Association Between Dietary Arginine and C-Reactive Protein; B. Wills, et al; 2005
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Omega-6 Fatty Acids; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; June 26, 2009
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