INFLAMMATION AND HEALTH

Inflammation tends to be a big buzz word lately. In short – the more we can keep the body in an anti-inflammatory state, the better. The issue is not when the body experiences a short burst of inflammation. In fact, that is a protective mechanism in our body that is necessary. The problem becomes when our body becomes chronically inflamed and the “fire” cannot be shut off. Chronic inflammation can result in;

• Pain in the joints
• Digestive issues
• Inability to lose weight
• Lack of energy and/or brain fog
• Headaches

One of the primary ways to reduce inflammation is by changing your diet. Below you will find a few of the most powerful techniques to reduce inflammation naturally.

ELIMINATE PROCESSED FOOD AND CHEMICALS

Removing pro-inflammatory food is key. Examples include;

• Sugary beverages
• Refined carbohydrates
• Desserts
• Processed meats
• Excess alcohol
• Excess coffee (try to stick to 1 per day!)
• Aspartame

EAT ANTI-INFLAMMAOTRY FOODS REGULARLY

There are certain types of “super-foods” that are higher in anti-oxidants and can work to lower the inflammatory response. These foods include;

Berries – wild blueberries are the best and offer the highest anti-oxidant capacity – put in your AM smoothie!

Salmon and other cold water fish – contain a rich source of omega 3 to lower the inflammatory response

Lemon – lemons can help with digestive and liver cleansing and are rich in vitamin C. Start your day off with fresh lemon water. Click here to read more about the benefits of lemon (great for liver cleansing!).

Leafy greens – broccoli, spinach, kale and arugula are all powerhouse foods to lower inflammation

Sweet potatoes – are “fill me up” foods rich in fibre, vitamin C and full of powerful anti-oxidants.

Avocados – rich in monounsaturated fats that offer anti-inflammatory effects

SUPPLMENT WISELY

A few of the top anti-inflammatory supplements I take on a regular basis include;

CURCUMIN – curcumin is a compound found in the spice tumeric which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin is often not absorbed properly into the bloodstream and is therefore combined with black pepper to increase absorption. Click here for my favourite curcumin.

FISH OILS -Fish oil supplements are rich in omega 3. They have been shown to be beneficial in enhancing brain function and lowering inflammation. Click here for the fish oil supplements we take at home.

CHLOROPHYLL – I use mint flavoured chlorophyll in my water on most days. Chlorophyll helps to detoxify the body in addition to being reducing free radial damage and being alkaline. For the brand I use, click here.

LIFESTYLE CHANGES

In addition to diet and supplements, exercise and proper stress management can all help to lower inflammation and bring levels of CRP (our inflammatory marker) down in our blood. Meditation and cold water showers/baths are also powerful tools to help.

Please note: It is important to talk to your doctor prior to starting any new supplement protocol.

Dr. Joey Shulman is a participant in the Amazon Associate Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sales to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.ca

Dr. Joey does not sell any products, rather – she refers to various website that offer some of her favourite, clean brands.