The Best Anti-Inflammatory Foods to Eat (Plus Eight to Avoid)

Inflammation in the body can contribute to a wide range of chronic diseases and conditions. But you can curb inflammation by eating the right foods. 

It is important to have knowledge about which foods cause inflammation and which foods fight it. In this post, we will discuss the most effective anti-inflammatory foods. We will also list eight foods to avoid when you’re fighting inflammation. 

Primary Types of Inflammation

Inflammation is a natural function of the body’s immune system. There are two main types of inflammation that the human body experiences.

Acute inflammation happens when the body is injured or sick. When acute inflammation occurs, the person may experience redness, swelling, or elevated body temperatures. This type of inflammation is helpful for healing, even though the symptoms are often unpleasant. Overall, acute inflammation is a healthy bodily response.

On the other hand, chronic inflammation is usually caused by an irritant or external condition. Examples include: 

• Additives
• Harmful chemicals
• Environmental or food compounds

This type of inflammation can also be the result of poor sleep, stress, or anxiety. Chronic inflammation is associated with many negative health outcomes. 

Food and Inflammation 

The foods that you eat can contribute to or calm inflammation in the body. Those foods that contribute to chronic inflammation can cause high blood sugar levels and blood pressure over time.

It is important to make healthy choices regarding food, stress control, and physical activity. Poor food choices combined with inactivity or stress can lead to long-term health problems, including chronic fatigue.

Foods that help to naturally ease chronic inflammation include:

• Nuts and seeds
• Green tea
• Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and kale
• Certain oils, such as krill oil
• Fish with high-fat content, including salmon
• Berries
• Fermented foods, including kefir and kombucha
• Leafy greens

The following foods should be avoided, as they contribute to chronic inflammation:

• Foods with saturated/trans fats content
• Fried food
• Sugar and artificial sweeteners
• Highly processed foods
• Cured meats
• Excess alcohol
• Excess caffeine
• A high ratio of omega-6 to omega-3

By eating anti-inflammatory foods, you can cultivate a healthy lifestyle. These foods will help you to avoid long-term health problems caused by chronic inflammation.