Top 10 Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Content by: Stuart Cooke

top inflammatory foods

Inflammation is not our friend, it can be the underlying cause for weight gain, the precursor to ill-health and has been linked to high cholesterol and heart disease (watch the 2-minute video here).

Food allergies, poor food choices, a stressful lifestyle and lack of quality sleep all take their toll in the form of inflammation. Take the first step and tackle inflammation head on, reduce processed, refined and sugary foods and then include smart choices from the 10 anti-inflammatory foods listed below.

Side note: After delving into the world of inflammation I undertook a simple 40 minute food sensitivity test from our Naturopath Tania Flack and found that I was highly reactive to eggs which was causing internal inflammation. After dropping the eggs I’m sleeping better, have more energy and feel better than ever – Stu.

Top 10 Anti-inflammatory Foods are:

anti-inflammatory foods salmon1) Salmon (wild is better than farmed):
Our favourite oily cold water fish contains anti-inflammatory omega-3s which have been known to help numerous ailments. If you’re not a fan of fish, try a high quality fish supplement.

anti-inflammatory foods kelp2) Kelp:
Kelp has unique anti-inflammatory properties found in the substance fucoidan. It’s high in fibre, and helps control liver and lung function while dousing inflammation. It’s also high in vitamins A, B1, B2, C, D and E.

anti-inflammatory foods olive oil3) Extra Virgin Olive Oil:
This oil provides a healthy dose of fats that fights inflammation, can help lower risks of asthma and arthritis, as well as protect the heart and blood vessels. Great on salads mixed with a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.

anti-inflammatory foods vegetables4) Cruciferous Vegetables:
Broccoli, brussel sprouts, kale and cauliflower are all loaded with antioxidants. Naturally detoxifying, they can help rid the body of possible harmful compounds.

anti-inflammatory-foods blueberries5) Blueberries:
Blueberries not only reduce inflammation, but they can protect the brain from ageing and prevent diseases. Aim for organic berries, as pesticides are hard to wash away due to their size.

anti-inflammatory-foods turmeric6) Turmeric:
This powerful Asian spice contains a natural anti-inflammatory compound, curcumin, which is often found in curry blends. It is said to have the same effect as over-the counter pain relievers.

anti-inflammatory-foods ginger7) Ginger:
Ginger helps reduce inflammation and control blood sugar. Ginger tea is a great addition to any diet. Try a slice of fresh ginger and lemon with hot water when you wake up.

anti-inflammatory-foods garlic8) Garlic:
Garlic can help reduce inflammation, regulate glucose and help your body fight infection. It’s good for joint pain too as the anti-arthritic property of garlic is due to diallyl sulphide and thiacremonone.

anti-inflammatory-foods green tea9) Green Tea:
Like produce, this tea contains anti-inflammatory flavonoids that have been shown to reduce the risks of heart disease and some cancers. Coupled with the awesome anti-oxident qualities and you’re onto a winner.

anti-inflammatory-foods sweet potatoes10) Sweet Potatos:
These gems are a good source of complex carbohydrate, beta-carotene, manganese, vitamin B6 and C as well as dietary fibre. Working together, these nutrients are powerful antioxidants that help to heal inflammation.

Replace bad food choices with a 180 meal replacement here

Stuart Cooke

This article is brought to you by Stuart Cooke. Stuart is the co-Founder and Director of 180 Nutrition. 180 Nutrition are aligned with a number of health professionals such as leading Nutritionists and Naturopaths and regularly connect with the world’s best experts in health and wellness via their iTunes podcast,... Read More
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2 Replies to “Top 10 Anti-Inflammatory Foods”
Sam says:

can I ask what is the best way to produce the above? i’ve heard steaming in the microwave (one of the methods i prefer for brocolli, cauliflower and brown rice) can destroy the good nutrients in food. Also i’ve heard baking sweet potatoes reduces the bio availability of it’s nutrients. Can I have your take on this please?

Guy Lawrence says:

Hi Sam, we generally steam the veg or quick boil to retail the nutrients. We’ll be posting on different cooking methods soon

Comments are closed.