Foods that provide relief from inflammation

Inflammation is the body’s response to attempt to heal itself after an injury, defend itself against virus and bacteria, eliminate toxins from the body and repair damaged tissue.  When something harmful or irritating affects a part of our body, there is a biological response to try to remove it. And this is what causes inflammation.

Signs and symptoms of inflammation

The signs and symptoms of inflammation can be uncomfortable but are a show that the body is trying to heal itself. The symptoms of inflammation are-  pain, redness, immobility, swelling, and heat.  Fatigue, mouth sores, chest pain, abdominal pain, fever, rash, abscess, joint pain could be signs where the body is trying to heal itself.

While there are medicines that could be prescribed for relief against this inflammation and pain, these come with side effects. Also, since we are trying to suppress the body’s natural healing process, these can be harmful in the long run.

Here is a list of some anti-inflammatory foods that will help ease the inflammation pain and aid in the healing process.

Read about our body’s power of healing itself

Turmeric

Curcumin present in turmeric contains anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties. Studies have shown curcumin directly inhibits the activation of inflammatory pathways by shutting off production of two pro-inflammatory enzymes.

Turmeric mixed with water to form a paste applied on inflamed areas(joints, wounds, abscess) also provides great relief. Having turmeric milk or honey and turmeric in warm water are very helpful to soothe an inflammation.

Ginger

Natural health experts claim that ginger helps lessen inflammations that occur when the body’s immune system malfunctions. It warms up the body and assists in its detoxification.

Beets

Beets provide an excellent source of the betalain antioxidant which is great for reducing inflammations. It also contains magnesium which helps fight infections.

Beetroot halwa is a great way to enjoy beets if you are not fond of them in salads.

Broccoli

Since broccoli contains very high amounts of potassium and magnesium, it is one of the best anti-inflammatory foods. It lowers body stress and even reduces the risks of cancer attacking body cells.

Pineapple

Pineapples contain a substance called bromelain that reduces the infections the body’s immune system generates. It also lessens the risks of strokes and heart disease. Pineapples supply healthy doses of vitamin C and B1, and they help to boost your manganese and potassium levels which help fight infections

Coconut oil

Research done supports claims that coconut oil is an effective anti-inflammatory.  It was found that coconut oil helped in reducing pain and treating arthritis

Quick tip: Have 1 tsp of coconut oil every morning before brushing. This keeps your bones and joints healthy

Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate with more than 70% cocoa is a great antioxidant and anti-inflammatory food. And being chocolate, they do have the added benefit of feeling good after eating it 😊

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