Saturday, May 16, 2020

What to do about inflammation

#75HARD came to a squishing halt. I realized yesterday morning the day before I was short 8oz of water.  That means, in short, you have to start over. At some point in the near future, I may do that.

Inflammation is an important response in the human body. 

It can assist in the healing of damaged tissue during an injury, or to fight a foreign body like an irritant or pathogen.

But when inflammation is not kept in check, experts agree that chronic inflammation is associated with everything from heart disease, allergies, obesity, skin issues, arthritis, and so much more. 

Cleaning up our diets is one of the best ways to reduce inflammation. Food sensitivity tests can be helpful, as well as becoming more attuned to your body after you eat certain foods.

You may be able to notice changes in factors like energy levels, mood, skin clarity, focus, or digestive or bathroom discomfort. 

Working with a qualified healthcare practitioner, preferably one who practices functional or integrative medicine, or a nutritionist, is a great way to have support to determine what foods are best for you. 

Remember, not every food acts the same in everybody. 

This is one of the reasons diet and nutrition can be such highly debated topics. 

But as you continue on the life-long journey of optimizing your diet, here are some foods and herbs to keep in mind that may come in handy if you are actively trying to reduce inflammation. 


TOP 9 HERBS & FOODS THAT REDUCE INFLAMMATION

Ginger
: Ginger reduces inflammation as well as “warms” the body. Its ability to increase circulation, paired with its anti-inflammatory properties makes it useful for treating osteoarthritis, and other conditions due to impaired circulation. Ginger also improves digestion by enhancing the secretion of gastric juices and is useful for nausea, gas, and motion sickness.

Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne is both anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative, and increases circulation. Cayenne may help in preventing certain types of cancers, hardening of the arteries, reducing histamine response. It's also useful in healing the mucous membranes, specifically those damaged by aspirin. 

Turmeric: Turmeric is widely known as one of the most potent anti-inflammatory herbs in the world and has been used for centuries as a treatment for inflammatory diseases. Turmeric has also been used by some to help prevent Alzheimer's Disease and tumor growth.

Pomegranate: Pomegranates are rich in polyphenols which are not only anti-oxidative but also anti-inflammatory. Pomegranates are useful in breaking down arterial plaque and strengthening the integrity of arteries. Studies show that pomegranate also inhibits the progression of tumor cells by inhibiting the growth of new blood vessels to tumors. 

Sarsaparilla: Sarsaparilla contains steroidal compounds that are anti-inflammatory and can be used as a homeopathic alternative to treating inflamed skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis. It can also be useful in arthritis, gout, and inflammation of connective tissue. Sarsaparilla is used in some countries as a heal-all herb, as it also has the ability to bind to toxins inside the gut and enhance the excretion of metabolic waste. 

Blueberry: Blueberries are high in proanthocyanidins, polyphenols that are potent anti-inflammatory agents. These berries have a strong ability to inhibit inflammatory cytokines which contribute to tissue damage, cellular damage, and even cancer. Blueberries also reduce histamine production and increase circulation to the brain, which makes them useful in treating allergies. Studies have shown that as little as 1/2 cup of blueberries per day can enhance cognitive function, memory, and motor skills.

Elderberry: Elderberry is not only useful for treating colds, influenza, and other viral respiratory disorders, but the anti-inflammatory property of this berry is also useful in reducing histamine production, specifically around the eyes. Elderberry is also rich in Vitamin C, antioxidants, and antiviral proteins. 

Cat’s Claw: Cat’s Claw has been traditionally used for treating cancers, but due to its potent anti-inflammatory activity, it is also used for inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and gastritis. Cat’s Claw also has powerful antiviral properties as well as immune system boosting 

Gotu Kola: Gotu Kola is a powerful anti-inflammatory and is useful for inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. The herb is also used to treat autoimmune conditions, strengthening and repairing connective tissue in conditions such as arthritis, and is most highly known for it being a “brain tonic”, as it enhances circulation to the brain and has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to treat, diagnose, prevent or cure any disease. 


To a healing future, 
Rob
The Need To GROW / Earth Conscious Life


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