What is an anti-inflammatory diet anyway?

Dear Pained & Inflamed,

Thanks for reaching out to us! “An anti-inflammatory diet focuses on quieting the immune system while also nourishing and strengthening the body,” says Christi Bowling, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Director of Nutrition for Vori Health.

An anti-inflammatory diet is especially beneficial for people who battle chronic inflammation from conditions like arthritis, cancer, heart disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and diabetes.  

“With these types of inflammatory conditions, the immune system goes into overdrive and can attack healthy tissue,” Bowling explains.

Since certain foods can worsen inflammation, and others can improve it, an anti-inflammatory diet focuses on foods that make up the latter group. The diet features a plentiful and colorful mix of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish (an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids), healthy fats, nuts, and seeds.  The diet also emphasizes specific herbs and spices that have been shown to alleviate inflammation such as turmeric, ginger, and garlic. An anti-inflammatory meal provides a healthy balance of macronutrients (protein, fats, and carbohydrates) while meeting the body’s needs for vitamins, minerals, fiber, and water.

“Food really is powerful medicine,” says Bowling. “Our patients with chronic inflammation experience a great deal of success on this diet through simple changes to their diet and lifestyle.”

Truly yours, ​  
Vori Health

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