Why You Need Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Inflammation is the part of obesity that can also lead to diabetes and heart disease. So, when we lose weight, we are also helping prevent our bodies from becoming metabolically out-of-balance. By disrupting our fat cell metabolism, inflammation can also put us at risk of disruption in the control of our appetite and fat-burning processes. Many flavonoids and carotenoids have strong anti-inflammatory properties, which are often unique to the specific food involved. Richly-coloured vegetables and fruits, including dark green leafy vegetables, beets, and berries are all great. Pineapple contains a protein-digesting enzyme called bromelain that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory activity. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids are also anti-inflammatory because omega-3 fatty acids like alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) can help put the brakes on inflammation. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids include fish like salmon, sardines, tuna, and other cold-water fish; and, nuts and seeds, especially flaxseeds, hemp seeds, and walnuts.