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What Are the Different Types of Anti-Inflammatory Foods?

Meshell Powell
Meshell Powell

Inflammation in the body can be caused by a variety of medical conditions, and some people do not want to risk possible complications arising from long-term medication usage. Fortunately, there are many anti-inflammatory foods available which can help to reduce inflammation while providing the body with much-needed nutrients. Some of the most popular anti-inflammatory foods include turmeric, shiitake mushrooms, salmon, and green tea. Other good choices when looking for anti-inflammatory foods include kelp, papaya, and blueberries.

Turmeric is a type of spice which is among the most commonly used anti-inflammatory foods. This spice has been found to have similar anti-inflammatory properties as many over the counter and prescription medications without the negative side effects. Ginger is another spice which works well in conjunction with turmeric and can also help with issues such as nausea and motion sickness.

Blueberries are a good anti-inflammatory food.
Blueberries are a good anti-inflammatory food.

Shiitake mushrooms and salmon are powerful anti-inflammatory foods. Deep-frying the mushrooms can negate the natural anti-inflammatory properties, so it is better to saute them or prepare them in another healthy manner. Salmon is very well-known for its many health-benefits, including the ability to reduce inflammation. It should be consumed twice a week whenever possible, although a high-quality fish oil supplement will often yield similar benefits.

Turmeric.
Turmeric.

Green tea has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties and has become a popular addition to many healthy diet plans. Studies have shown that green tea is likely to significantly reduce the risks of developing diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Dairy products, especially processed cow milk, may interfere with the anti-inflammatory properties of green tea.

Shiitake mushrooms are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Shiitake mushrooms are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Kelp is among the most effective anti-inflammatory foods available. Some studies have indicated the possibility of using kelp to treat certain forms of cancer as well. Organic kelp is ideal, although it may not always be easy to find. Seaweed snacks containing kelp should be avoided due to high sodium and oil contents.

Blueberries and papaya are fruits which serve as wonderful anti-inflammatory foods. Blueberries are not only good for inflammatory conditions, but they may also offer protection against diseases such as cancer and dementia. It is important to stay away from berries which have been treated with pesticides due to the possible health risks associated with these chemicals. Papaya reduces inflammation while helping to aid in the digestive processes of the body. Dried papaya may contain potentially harmful chemicals, so it is best to choose fresh fruit whenever possible.

Discussion Comments

bluedolphin

@fBoyle-- If you don't like turmeric, you can also use ginger, licorice or garlic. All of these have anti-inflammatory properties as well.

If you're looking for something that you can use topically, then I recommend witch hazel. It is a tonic but it also reduces swelling.

Vitamin E is another powerful anti-inflammatory. You can take the supplements or eat foods rich in vitamin E. If you take the supplements, make sure that the vitamin E is natural and not synthetic.

fBoyle

I knew that green tea has antioxidants, I didn't realize that it has anti-inflammatory properties as well. I'm going to start drinking more green tea.

What other herbs/spices have anti-inflammatory properties? I tried turmeric once and I wasn't too fond of the taste. I need some other options.

burcinc

There are so many anti-inflammatory foods available to us. And if anyone has noticed, they're all natural, organic foods. So those eating a natural, healthy balanced diet are already eating many anti-inflammatory foods. Many herbs and spices have this property as well, so it's important to add a little bit of these to our diet.

I personally eat lots of fruits and vegetables and I try to eat salmon once a week. When I can't eat salmon, I take fish oil supplements.

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    • Blueberries are a good anti-inflammatory food.
      By: Mariusz Blach
      Blueberries are a good anti-inflammatory food.
    • Turmeric.
      By: Kasia Bialasiewicz
      Turmeric.
    • Shiitake mushrooms are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
      By: Chris leachman
      Shiitake mushrooms are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
    • Green tea is a popular anti-inflammatory.
      By: NataliTerr
      Green tea is a popular anti-inflammatory.
    • Fresh papaya is an excellent anti-inflammatory.
      By: tashka2000
      Fresh papaya is an excellent anti-inflammatory.
    • Salmon is a very healthy meal.
      By: dulsita
      Salmon is a very healthy meal.
    • Ginger is sometimes used in conjunction with other foods as an anti-inflammatory.
      By: praisaeng
      Ginger is sometimes used in conjunction with other foods as an anti-inflammatory.