Nowadays everyone is looking for that special “cure-all” diet. As a lymphatic massage therapist, I closely study research regarding general health, but particularly the health associated with inflammation. Not surprisingly, I’ve even had a client or two ask me about the benefits of an anti-inflammatory diet.
So, I thought I’d tackle that topic with a post.
First, keep in mind that an anti-inflammatory diet is a low-carb, low-grain diet. Anti-inflammatory foods are rich in Omega-3’s, high in leafy greens, and rich in meats like fish. No processed foods, very few grains and dairy items, and little to no sugar.
I’ve done the research and gathered the facts, there are many benefits associated with anti-inflammatory diet foods, but here are the top 10 to consider.
Benefit #1. Reduced Cardiovascular Disease
An anti-inflammatory diet may even help reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Similar to the Keto and Paleo diets, a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can reduce the strain placed on the cardiovascular system. It’s low in grains which are often converted into sugar in the body, leaving you bloated and making it difficult to lose weight. The anti-inflammatory diet is quite different. For more in-depth reading, consider the following:
- Dr. Steven Gundry’s book, “The Plant Paradox.”
- Dr. Mercola’s recent book on Keto “Fat for Fuel.”
- Dr. Perlmutter’s book on grains is “Grain Brain” that links gains to dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Benefit #2. Reduces Symptoms of Arthritis
One of the top anti-inflammatory diet foods is not a food but a spice—turmeric! Indian cuisine is rich in this potent spice, and many Americans report having reduced arthritis and joint pain after visiting the country.
Benefit #3. Improves your Mood
Foods high in Omega-3’s have been linked to a reduction in anxiety and depression. One of the primary food sources in the anti-inflammation diet is fish, such as salmon, sardines and tuna, all of which are well-documented to contain high amounts of Omega-3’s. This food is a staple meat source on the anti-inflammatory diet.
Benefit #4. You Could Lose Weight
One of the most desired benefits of the anti-inflammatory diet is weight loss! As a natural result of eliminating processed foods, fast meals, and simply consuming more fiber you could lose weight with this diet—although this is NOT the focus.
Benefit #5. Easy Access to Anti-Inflammatory Diet Foods
Unlike diets like Paleo, the anti-inflammatory diet doesn’t require you to forage for hours at the grocery store. Simply pick up leafy greens like kale and spinach, walnuts, fish, and fruit to set yourself up for success.
Benefit #6. Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease
Anti-inflammatory diets have also been linked to the prevention of brain diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Benefit #7. Reduced Risk of Diabetes
By simply cutting out complex carbohydrates, grains, and sugar-based processed foods this diet can help prevent diabetes.
Benefit #8. Thought to Treat Allergies
Inflammation is thought to be behind many allergies and even allergy induced asthma. By consuming foods that reduce inflammation in the body, you give it a rest and suffer less from allergies.
Benefit #9. Reduction in Symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
As the name states, Inflammatory Bowel Disease is greatly exacerbated by the foods we consume. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods could reduce symptoms of the disease.
Benefit #10. Speeds up Recovery Time After Surgery
Perhaps my favorite benefit of an anti-inflammatory diet is how quickly it speeds up recovery time after surgery. Many of my clients visit me after receiving liposuction or cosmetic surgery. Their bodies are tired and are attempting to recover. Clients who practice an anti-inflammatory diet have a faster recovery time and seem to enjoy greater benefits of their treatment. I would highly recommend this diet to anyone who is planning on having surgery or who is now in recovery.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet Foods
- Salmon, Tuna, Sardines
- Chickpeas
- Turmeric & Ginger
- Spinach & Kale
- Broccoli
- Asparagus
- Green beans
- Beets & Berries
- Nuts
- Apples & Avocados
- Dark Chocolate
Want to detox your body before you start an anti-inflammatory diet? Then check out my latest detox series starting with How to Do An Intestinal Cleanse.
Wishing you a healthy day full of anti-inflammatory foods!