Anti-Inflammatory Foods

I am sure you have all heard that chronic pain is caused by inflammation.  While inflammation is our bodies natural response to injury and/or infection, too much inflammation can cause serious problems.  Many conditions cause inflammation such as autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and psoriasis.  Hidradenitis Suppurativa is another cause of inflammation.  While there are medications that help fight inflammation, an important step in helping to reduce inflammation in the body is removing foods that cause inflammation.  I find it to be of no coincidence that some of the same foods that are considered "trigger foods" for some Hidradenitis Suppurativa sufferers are also foods that are pro-inflammatory.

Any food that can help fight inflammation is crucial in preventing future diseases and treating current diseases.  I thought it may be helpful to share a list of some of the best anti-inflammatory foods.  I try to incorporate at least 3 of these on a daily basis. 

Eat your Blueberries!!

Garlic: Not only does garlic contain anti-inflammatory properties, garlic is what I consider a superfood.  It lowers blood pressure, blood cholesterol and blood sugar.  Garlic also protects the liver and contains anti-tumor properties.  It has the ability of boosting the lymphatic system which functions as a defense in the immune system.  Try the Sesame Garlic Dressing!

Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, antioxidant effects and is a natural painkiller.  Ginger is also said to help reduce the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome.  If Hidradenitis Suppurativa is linked to Alzheimer's Disease as some studies suggest, eating ginger may help protect against Alzheimer's by slowing down the loss of brain cells.  Try the Sesame Garlic Dressing!

Extra Virgin Olive Oil:  Extra virgin olive oils have a phytonutrient called oleocanthal.  Studies have shown this natural phenolic compound helps fight inflammation.  Extra virgin olive oils are also rich in antioxidants which helps boost the immune system.  Here is another example of a food that may help reduce the risk of Alzheimer's.  Try cooking with extra virgin olive oil and make sure to avoid those vegetable oils!

Turmeric:  Turmeric contains curcumin which is incredibly anti-inflammatory.  It is also a wonderful antioxidant.  And yes, another brain food!  Brain diseases, such as Alzheimer's, have been linked to lower levels of the BDNF hormone.  The curcumin in turmeric has been shown to increase the BDNF hormone which may help with brain function.

Blueberries:  Blueberries contain polyphenols which have anti-inflammatory properties including decreasing the inflammatory process correlated with chronic conditions.  An added benefit is they are very high in antioxidants which help the immune system.  Blueberries are known to heal damaged brain cells which could also help reduce the risk of Alzheimer's Disease.  I put blueberries in my oatmeal!

Green Tea:  Green tea contains flavonoids which have anti-inflammatory properties.  Green tea is a very powerful antioxidant which has so many health benefits.  One of the most potent compounds of green tea is something called Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG).  Studies suggest EGCG may have potential benefits to skin health.  Research has also proven that the polyphenols in green tea fight against harmful bacteria that have been found in Hidradenitis Suppurativa flare-ups.

Cruciferous Vegetables:  Cruciferous vegetables are loaded with vitamin K which help regulate our inflammatory response.  These vegetables also help with the repair of our body's tissues. Cruciferous vegetables are high in fiber which may help move toxins out of your body.  It has been suggested that diets high in fiber help prevent toxins from being discharged through the skin.  Good examples of cruciferous vegetables are cauliflower, broccoli, arugula, kale, brussel sprouts, and collard greens to name a few.  I add about a tbsp. of the Sesame Garlic Dressing to a sealed Tupperware, add raw broccoli and shake well.  It is delicious!

Fish:  Fish (omega-3 fatty acids, salmon, tuna, etc.) literally stops inflammation in its tracks!  It immediately starts to reduce inflammation that is currently in the body.  Omega-3 fatty acids also help alleviate skin disorders.  Not to mention, it improves the texture of your skin.  Fish, such as salmon, is loaded with vitamins and nutrients.