An Anti-Inflammatory Diet Can Make a Big Difference When Dealing With Chronic Inflammation

Many people think of aching joints when they think of inflammation. It is true - inflammation causes painful, stiff joints. Swelling, redness, and a 'hot' feeling are often common indicators of an inflamed joint. However, inflammation goes much farther in destruction than just the joints. Arteries, organs, and blood vessels can also be affected. Serious diseases like Alzheimer's, cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and even eczema can all be linked back to inflammation. It makes sense to try and eliminate as much inflammation as possible from the body. It is easier than people would think to help the body heal from the damages being done by inflammation. One way to do that is through diet. Elimination of certain foods and the addition of others can flush inflammation from the body, allowing the body to heal itself. Some damage can be reversed. For other areas, improvements can be made. Below are five foods that help to rid the body of inflammation. 

1 - Broccoli

Known as a superfood because of its antioxidant properties, broccoli also has kaempferol, which helps the body to modulate inflammation. Quercetin is another flavonoid found in broccoli. Quercetin helps reduce inflammation and also fights cancer cells. Broccoli is also full of vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, vitamin C and folate. Each of these elements fight inflammation. Combined they work to eradicate inflammation. Broccoli is also high in fiber. Fiber helps to balance the pH levels and lower inflammation.

2 - Pineapple

The beloved pineapple is the star of smoothies, tropical drinks, and fruit platters. However, pineapple also stars in the fight against inflammation - especially inflammation of the gut. This is partly due to an enzyme called 'bromelain'. Bromelain works to reduce inflammation found in the gut. Pineapple also contains vitamin C - another inflammation buster. Pineapples also have potassium. This substance helps the kidneys to flush out sodium. Excess sodium exacerbates inflammation in the body. Of course, there is also plenty of fiber in a pineapple. This sweet fruit is an inflammation eliminator.

3 - Mushrooms

Many people cook with mushrooms to enhance the flavors and textures of favorite dishes like spaghetti. However, as far as inflammation-fighters go, it's hard to beat the humble mushroom. Ergothioneine is the super-power hidden in these fungi that helps to fight inflammation all over the body. Mushrooms also contain vitamin B, which has been shown to significantly reduce inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis patients. It is important to note that cooking may lower the compounds that fight inflammation. Shiitake, turkey tail, oyster and other types of mushrooms can be eaten raw or slightly cooked to reap the inflammation-fighting benefits.

4 - Salmon

Delicious and nutritious, wild salmon is a great meat source for combating inflammation in the body. Salmon is stuffed full of vitamin B, potassium, and vitamin D. Vitamin D is a relatively new player in the fight against inflammation. Salmon is also one of the top sources for omega-3 fatty acids, which fight inflammation. While farm-raised salmon may be more sustainable, for the best results against inflammation go for the wild salmon.

5 - Garlic

Strong in flavor and aroma, garlic is loved by cooks around the world. However, garlic is also a top contender in the fight against inflammation. Garlic contains diallyl disulfide. This compound is proven to fight against pro-inflammatory cytokines. This simply means one team (the cytokines) tries to create inflammation and the other team (garlic) tries to prevent them from being created in the first place. The good news is that team garlic wins. Garlic can also prevent cartilage from being damaged by arthritis. Garlic boosts the immune system, which is another way to fight inflammation.