FIGHTING INFLAMMATION

As we all know - Inflammation is a part of chronic illness. So today I thought I’d discuss foods that help reduce inflammation and why. I also put together a couple of my favorite smoothy recipes for helping reduce Inflammation.

Inflammation: a cure and a blessing!! Its a part of our normal immune response, and when the body is harmed, it sends lymph and white blood cells through the lymphatic system to flood the area of concern. This fluid uses chemical reactions to separate and remove the harmful substances, restoring the cells back to their normal state.

Acute inflammation- which is temporary inflammation; works to heal the body. However, inflammation that extends for long periods of time (chronic inflammation) puts a strain on the circulatory and immune systems, damages body tissues, and destroys cells. Chronic inflammation can be attributed to a diet high in processed foods and/or to food sensitivities and allergies. Chronic inflammation makes the body more prone to contracting OTHER illnesses – so its important to do what we can to try to keep it down.

Below are foods that contain natural inflammation busting compounds. Please use caution and discernment with the ingredients to your particular condition.

Foods known to help fight Inflammation are:

Spinach, Blueberries, Cherries: They contain high levels of flavonoids – compounds known to reduce inflammation. They also contain high antioxidant levels.

The theory that links the presence of free radicals in the body to an increased cancer risk is gaining support in both medical and holistic healing circles. Free radicals are molecules taken in from the environment that lack and electron.The missing electron makes the free radical molecule unstable and prone to stealing electrons from other healthy cells. This process has been cited as a cause of premature aging, and a host of illnesses and diseases including cancer.

Antioxidants neutralize free radicals. They do this by donating one of their own electrons to the free radical, so the free radical stops looking for an electron to steal.Antioxidants remain stable, even after they give an electron to a free radical. Certain nutrients like Vitamin C and E are particularly good at protecting the body against destructive free radicals.

The Best way to ensure you are getting a sufficient intake of antioxidants is by eating a balanced diet consisting of at least 5-8 servings of fruits and vegetables per day.

Avacado, Salmon, Walnuts: All contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to disrupt the cell signals that trigger inflammation. (It is important to note that many mast cell patients may not tolerate these items well – so use caution and discernment)

Papaya, Pineapple: Both fruits belong to the bromeliad family, and as such, contain the enzyme bromelain with has shown to reduce inflammatory responses.

Tumeric: Renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, this spice contains curcumin – a compound known to interfere with chemicals that cause inflammation. It is helpful both when ingested, and when applied topically to skin conditions or injuries.

Ginger: Gingerol is the main bioactive compound in ginger, responsible for much of its medicinal properties. It has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Bottom Line: Ginger is a popular spice. It is high in gingerol, a substance with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Holy Basil, Tarragon, Moringa, Peppermint, Mangostein: Both anti-histaminic and anti-inflammatory. These ingredients can pack a punch for the allergy sufferer and the chronically inflamed.

Here are a few of my personal favorite smoothy recipes to get you started.... All ingredients are optional and you can always create your own unique blend!!

Bromelain Rich Smoothy: (add ingredients as tolerated)

50% spinach

Papaya

Pineapple

2 tbsp sunflower seeds

Water

Busted Can-O-Biscuits Soother:

50% spinach

Blueberries

Pineapple

Bit o' papaya

1 tsp Maca powder (or Moringa Powder)

2-3 capsules of Holy Basil

Tumerific Smoothy:

Spinach

Pineapple

Papaya

Slice of lime

Slice of Lemon

tsp Flaxseed (if tolerated)

½ tsp turmeric powder

Water

Below are a few more recipes from some of my favorite Blogs/web sites to help find more recipes!!

Love and Light,

Happy Healing!