There are two sides to inflammation. On one hand, it can help your body fight disease and generate the healing process. However, when inflammation becomes chronic, it can wreak havoc and cause a host of illnesses from obesity to heart disease.

This is why many people decide to begin an anti-inflammatory diet. There are numerous benefits involved, making it a common goal among many health-seeking individuals. Let’s take a look at some of these benefits and learn how to take the first step in changing your lifestyle for the better.

What Is an Anti-Inflammatory Diet?

An anti-inflammatory diet is less of a traditional diet and more of a lifestyle choice. This means that it is not a crash course in losing weight or a quick fix for what ails you. Rather, it is a deliberate and evolving process that can take you on a natural healing journey. Because increased levels of inflammation can lead to disease, it’s important to keep those levels in check. One of the best ways to maintain a healthy body is to increase your intake of anti-inflammatory foods.

Why is Anti-Inflammatory Diet Necessary?

Those with certain health conditions might already be experiencing an excess of inflammation. And this is why starting an anti-inflammatory diet plan can be an important step in improving overall health. Some common illnesses associated with inflammation include:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Asthma
• Type II Diabetes
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBS)

Those most at risk can benefit from a lifestyle that supports the consumption of anti-inflammatory foods. Increasing your intake of anti-inflammatories may help decrease your risk of further damage and help avoid future illness.

What Are the Benefits of an Anti-Inflammatory Diet?

Implementing a diet rich in anti-inflammatories can spur a host of health benefits. Not only can an anti-inflammatory diet help those experiencing illness but it can also work to combat the possible onset of disease in the future. Managing inflammation levels through a change in diet can produce the following benefits:

• Reduce the risk for heart disease
• Reduce the risk for Alzheimer’s disease
• Lower blood pressure
• Reduce the symptoms of arthritis

Which Foods Combat Inflammation?

A plethora of anti-inflammatory foods can be implemented into your diet plan. Many of these foods are rich in antioxidants and rich in healthy fats. Here are some of the most common:

Fruits & Vegetables

Fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, and oranges are a few great choices. In addition, vegetables including spinach, kale, and collard greens are also full of anti-inflammatory properties. Implementing a diet that is plentiful in anti-inflammatory fruits and veggies is a great way to begin your wellness journey.

Fish, Nuts, and Olive Oil

Foods abundant in healthy fats can also help combat inflammation. Tuna, salmon, and mackerel are excellent sources of omega 3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA. Nuts like walnuts and almonds are also good sources in addition to olive oil.

How Do I Start?

Getting started is simple. Seek the advice of your physician and nutritionist to determine the best path for you. Implementing anti-inflammatory foods and supplements like Omega 3, EPA, and DHA are also part of many diet plans. At Z.E.N. Foods, we understand the importance of a productive lifestyle and we want to help you access healthy foods that can help you feel your best. Visit our website to learn more, and begin your journey to wellness today.