AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DIET COULD SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE CHRONIC PAIN
Would you believe that more than 50 million Americans experience chronic pain? Much of that pain has been attributed to inflammation and is also the cause of many chronic diseases.
So what is the best way to reduce inflammation in the body?
Many experts agree that a diet with a healthy balance of nutrient-dense foods that include protein, carbohydrates and fat are the way to significantly lower inflammation. Studies have also shown that following an anti-inflammatory style of eating also reduces the risk of heart disease, colorectal cancer and obesity.
So what does an anti-inflammatory diet consist of?
Eating low-fat protein with a large variety and quantity of vegetables, limited amounts of fruits and only using small amounts of monounsaturated fats.
Foods that should be eaten regularly are cruciferous vegetables, tomatoes, leafy greens, peppers, deep-colored fruits, sweet potatoes, whole grains, beans, omega-3 fatty foods, fish, real nuts (almonds and walnuts), dark chocolate, herbs and spices.
Processed foods, refined carbs, trans fats, alcohol, sugary beverages and greasy foods should be avoided.
Obviously eliminating or including certain foods may work better for some than others. A food sensitivity test will help you eliminate any foods that, even though listed as anti-inflammatory, could actually cause inflammation in you.
Don’t expect results immediately. An anti-inflammatory diet is not a quick-fix treatment. Eliminating foods for a 6 month period will give you a good indication of whether your inflammation has been significantly reduced, however, some people see results after 10 to 14 days.
Luckily following an anti-inflammatory diet is pretty easy to do as it does give you so many food options that even eating out should not be restrictive.
Unfortunately you can never totally recover from inflammation, you can only manage it. Re-introducing trigger inflammatory foods back into your diet will, in most cases, start the inflammation cycle again.
The anti-inflammatory diet is not a magic potion that is going to cure all of your pain but it may certainly help in alleviating chronic symptoms and will certainly put your on a path to long-term health.