Anti-inflammatory foods are foods that can reduce or prevent inflammation in the body when consumed.

Foods that help reduce or prevent inflammation are known as anti-inflammatory foods. These foods contain phytonutrients (phytochemicals), including antioxidants, beta-carotene, polyphenols, and flavonoids. Inflammation is the body’s reaction to “foreign invaders” like bacteria, pollen, and chemicals.

Everyday experiences can cause inflammation in the body, which is normal when intermittent. Nonetheless, when the body goes through a constant state of inflammation, this is referred to as chronic inflammation and can be bad for our health. Some anti-inflammatory foods and drinks include leafy green vegetables, berries, and cacao.

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References

Foods that Fight Inflammation. (November 2018). Harvard Health Publishing. Retrieved July 2020 via, https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/foods-that-fight-inflammation.

How to use Food to Fight Inflammation. (August 2019). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved August 2020,https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/how-to-use-food-to-help-your-body-fight-inflammation/art-20457586

Gellman, Abbie, MS, RDN, CDN. (2019). An Anti-Inflammatory Diet: What to Eat and Why it Matters. National Academy of Sports Medicine. Retrieved August 2020, https://blog.nasm.org/an-anti-inflammatory-diet-what-to-eat-why-it-matters.

Anti-Inflammatory Drinks. (July 2017). Redirect Health. (Retrieved August 2020, https://arrowheadhealth.com/anti-inflammatory-drinks/.

Other useful links to learn more:

https://fruitsandveggies.org/stories/what-are-phytochemicals/

https://www.nutrition.gov/topics/whats-food/phytonutrients

Kianne is a Food & Bakery Scientist with 7+ years of experience in the industry supporting brands such as DiGiorno pizza, Toll House cookie dough, and Buitoni pasta. Kianne holds a B.S. in Bakery Science and Management from Kansas State University, and a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Kansas.