Inflammation has been a topic that has been frequently featured on the news, in papers and on various health blogs and social media. The reason for this is that more and more medical evidence is coming to light that chronic inflammation in the body can increase the risk that someone will eventually develop cancer. This is thought to be because inflammation is essentially a response to irritation in the tissues, and this irritation over time can lead to cell damage and eventually to mutated or pre-cancerous cells. The good news is, however, that there are natural ways to reduce that inflammation through the diet. Read on to find out more about the best anti-inflammatory foods available.
Tropical Fruits
Tropical fruits, including pineapple, papaya and mango, have compounds called proteolytic enzymes. These enzymes help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract by making the digestive process easier on the body, soothing down irritation of the stomach and also fighting ulcers by killing off the h. pylori bacteria that is the root cause of many ulcers in the first place. (1)
Avocado
Avocado has certainly earned its place in the ranks of superfoods that have extra high nutritional value to offer the body for long-term health. Avocado has many phytochemicals with anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, its high mineral content has an alkalizing effect upon the body, which can also help to reduce the body’s inflammatory response. (2)
Spices
Certain spices are well worth sprinkling on soups, salads, casseroles and other dishes on a daily basis for the powerful anti-inflammatory benefits they offer. The best spices available to reduce inflammation include turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, basil and cayenne pepper. (3)
Wild-Caught Salmon
Wild-caught salmon (and other fatty fish like tuna) are incredibly rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These are not only great for heart health though: omega-3’s are also potent anti-inflammatory agents, which is why they are so often prescribed for inflammatory conditions like arthritis. (4)
Green Tea
The catechins in green tea, including EGCG, also have powerful anti-inflammatory properties and can help to reducing these inflammatory responses throughout the body. In addition to this, they have powerful antioxidant properties which can also help in reducing cancer risk. (5)
Berries
Strawberries, blueberries, cranberries and similar fruits pack a double punch when it comes to cancer: not only do they contain anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants which reduce stress on the cells, they also have potent anti-inflammatory foods that make them one of the best anti-cancer foods out there. (5)
The foods listed about are delicious, easily accessible and versatile, being able to fit into a wide variety of dishes. And not only will these foods add flavor and variety to the diet, they will help to reduce inflammation throughout the body and not only help with conditions like arthritis but reduce cancer risk as well.
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