Combating Inflammation Through Diet

Last week we discussed what inflammation is, as well as how it can cause us pain. It is widely believed that inflammation can be managed, if not controlled based on what we put in our bodies. This is where the “anti-inflammatory” diet comes into play.
There are an abundance of resources available on the topic of the anti-inflammatory diet (see the end of the article) and many variations of it. For today's purposes we're going to limit our exploration to foods that can irritate inflammation and those that are considered to be non-irritating, or helpful at decreasing inflammation.

Foods that May Irritate Inflammation
We have many options available to us these days for sustenance. Many of these options are tasty and quick, appealing to society's 'on the go' lifestyle. Unfortunately these foods can be major culprits on inflammation. Processed foods are under a great deal of scrutiny for the role that many believe they play in facilitating inflammation. Examples of processed foods that should be avoided are; processed meats (hot dogs, pre-packaged lunch meats, etc.), products that are high in simple, processed sugars (candy, soda, etc.), Trans fats, partially hydrogenated oils, and processed/refined flours. One or more of these can be found in many accepted snack foods on the market today. To avoid them, one must research the foods they regularly consume and become accustomed to reading labels while visiting the supermarket.

Anti inflammatory Foods
With so many foods harboring suspect ingredients on the market, it's hard to make health-conscientious decisions to reduce pain in your life. Fortunately there are anti inflammatory foods out there that are relatively easy to find. First and foremost, Omega 3 fatty acids are vital to the anti inflammatory diet. Omega 3's can be found in supplements in the form of fish or flax oil, and can also be found in fish and many nuts (walnuts are a great Omega 3 food.)
Phytochemicals are also considered by many to play an important role in the anti inflammatory diet. These are found in plant foods and can be obtained by consuming a diet that is high in a variety of fresh fruits and veggies.
It's also important to consider what kind of foods you are eating. A diet that is varied and has and abundance of fresh produce, whole grains, and healthy fats is going to increase your chances if reducing inflammation.

It is well-accepted that the health of your body can be improved by being mindful of what you put in it. Wouldn't it be nice if you could decrease the amount of pain you live with daily just by changing a few of your food choices?

*Please consult your physician before making any major changes to your health routine. Always inform your physician of supplements that you may be taking or dietary changes you have made.*

Tonight, why don't you apply some Sore No More! to your problem areas and settle in to watch your favorite movie with a healthy bowl of lentils and rice?

To learn more about the anti inflammatory diet please visit the following links:
http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART02012/anti-inflammatory-diet
http://nutrition.about.com/od/dietsformedicaldisorders/a/antiinflamfood_2.htm
http://www.webmd.com/diet/guide/anti-inflammatory-diet-road-to-good-health?page=3
http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/healthy/news/diet_antiinflammatory
http://www.level1diet.com/
http://www.thedietchannel.com/Anti-Inflammatory-Diets.htm
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=the+Antiinflammatory+diet&x=0&y=0





Sore No More
150 East Center Street
Moab, Utah 84532

Tel: (435) 259-5931
Toll Free: (800) 842-6622
www.sorenomore.com