Foods that do/don’t cause inflammation.

Chronic inflammation can manifest in various ways throughout the body. Here are some common signs to be aware of:

• Persistent Fatigue

• Joint Pain and Stiffness

• Digestive Issues

• Skin Problems

• Frequent Infections

• Mood Changes

• Weight Gain

• Autoimmune Conditions

• Sleep Disturbances

• Elevated Blood Markers

It probably will not be shocking to you that be best ways to manage chronic inflammation are:

• Adopt an Anti-Inflammatory Diet

• Stay Hydrated

• Get Regular Physical Activity

• Manage Stress

• Get Adequate Sleep

• Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking

So what consists of an anti-inflammatory diet?

Well lets first talk about the foods you should be avoiding that are generally agreed upon to be considered the highest causes of inflammation in the body.

• Processed meat, such as bologna, bacon, sausage and lunchmeat

• Commercial baked goods such as snack cakes, pies, cookies and brownies

• Bread and pasta made with white flour

• Deep fried items such as French fries, fried chicken and donuts

• Foods high in added sugar, such as candy, jelly and syrup

• Sugar-sweetened beverages such as soda, bottled or canned tea drinks, and sports drinks

• Trans fats, found in margarine, microwave popcorn, refrigerated biscuits and dough, and nondairy coffee creamers

• Direct grilling as a cooking method

Now we have a list of what to avoid, what foods are generally deemed as low inflammatory?

• Fatty fish- salmon, herring, mackerel, sardines, tuna, striped bass and anchovies,

• Vegetables such as broccoli and peppers

• Anti-oxidants from green tea, dark chocolate and cocoa

• Fruit such as: berries, grapes, cherries, tomatoes, and avocados

• Mushrooms such as: shitake, lion’s mane, chaga, and oyster

• Nuts seeds such as: walnuts, almonds, flax,chia, pumpkin and pistachios

• Spices such as: Turmeric, Ginger, Garlic, Red and Black Pepper

• Cold Pressed oils such as: Extra virgin olive oil, Flaxseed, Avocado, and Walnut