Inflammation in the body is known to contribute to several chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma, inflammatory gut disorders, arthritis, obesity, cancer, and dementia. Eating an Anti Inflammatory Diet may help to lessen inflammation and decrease chronic disease. Here are some simple guidelines:
1) Consume adequate omega-3 fatty acids.
• Eat two servings (4 ounces or 113 g each) of fatty fish per week OR supplement with 1–4 g of combined EPA+DHA daily. These will be listed on the supplement facts label.
• Reduce intake of omega-6 fatty acids to keep ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 in the range of 2:1 to 4:1.
• Flaxseeds and flaxseed oil are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, in addition to fish.
2) Choose healthy fats.
• Replace vegetable oils, trans-fats, or butter with extra-virgin olive oil.
3) Increase vegetable and fruit intake (especially vegetables).
• Consume 5–9 servings of vegetables and fruits per day, with more than half as vegetables.
• Color your diet! Deeply colored fruits and vegetables contain higher amounts of protective phytochemicals.
• Use the plate method: the biggest portion (half the plate) is where the vegetables go(excluding potatoes).
4) Choose whole grain carbohydrates and limit the portion sizes.
• Choose carbohydrates that are whole grain and aim for a total of 25 g of fiber per day.
• Rx: Double your vegetable intake, and half your intake of refined carbohydrates (anything with flour and/or sugar)!
5) Get your protein from plant sources such as legumes, nuts, and seeds, and/or choose lean, natural animal sources of protein in moderate amounts (grass-fed or pastured if possible).
6) Spice it up! Include anti-inflammatory herbs and spices such as garlic, turmeric, rosemary, ginger, oregano, cumin, and cayenne in your diet.
7) Eat mindfully
• Be mindful of your food portions. Quality AND quantity matter. Regardless of how healthy your food
choices are, excess calories from any source can increase inflammation and obesity.
• Savor your food, chew slowly and ENJOY IT!!!
