Benefits of an Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Inflammation is the body’s normal reaction to infection or injury, however chronic inflammation can lead to disease and diminished vitality. The signs of inflammation are swelling, redness, and pain. Chronic inflammation has been attributed as a cause for heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease and causes permanent damage to joints, arteries, and even the brain. Many autoimmune diseases are attributed to inflammatory responses, as well.

Known treatments for inflammation call for rest, stretching, and light exercise, but simple dietary changes can significantly reduce inflammation and increase health. Exercise is known to be an effective way to reduce inflammation, and now scientific research has shown that various foods can both cause inflammation or reduce it.

Obesity can cause an inflammatory response in the body, as the fat tissue regulates hormones, especially the three metabolic hormones leptin, resistin and adiponectin that control appetite, insulin resistance and sensitivity.

Foods that cause inflammation include sugar, high-fat meats, food additives such as nitrates, and saturated fats. Hydrogenated vegetable oils such as those found in margarines are especially damaging, as are all simple sugars, including corn sweeteners. It is best to avoid these foods as much as possible and replace them with healthy alternatives.