Today I’m amped to share with you my four favorite foods for reducing inflammation.
These foods are powerful for many things that may be going on in our systems: everything from daily and stress-related inflammation to specific health challenges benefits from the right nutrition.¹
Actually – before we talk about specific foods, let’s touch on what I believe it’s wise for us to cut out. My top picks include alcohol, caffeine, sugar, dairy, and gluten, which can each contribute to chronic inflammation in our bodies (and increase the occurrence of other health issues).
Avoiding these potential triggers and especially keeping hydrated (with clean, filtered water) can be powerful allies for reducing inflammation.
(Some specific tips on hydration: if it’s cold weather, slightly warm the water; and for variety and a boost, add squeezed lemon or lime and even a few leaves of organic peppermint).
Aside from nutrition and hydration, several other lifestyle factors that contribute to inflammation are important considerations, so please do message me if you’re keen to zero-in on ones that are relevant to you.
Now for Fi’s 4 Fav Foods to Reduce Inflammation!
Each of these can be valuable as they provide antioxidant + flavanoid-protection for our cells:
- Green, leafy veggies
- Celery (packed with antioxidants and vitamin K)
- Turmeric (which studies show is more powerful than aspirin and ibuprofen for reducing inflammation)
- Peppermint (applied topically or ingested via diluted, high-quality essential oils and also enjoyed directly as fresh, organic leaves, one of my favs to have for breakfast and smoothies!)
As always – I love hearing how you get on with these 
¹In “What is Inflammation?” Amanda Macmillan quotes Dr. Mansour Mohamadzadeh, director of the Center for Inflammation and Mucosal Immunology at the University of Florida, who clarifies that “in a healthy situation, inflammation serves as a good friend to our body”… “but if immune cells start to overreact, that inflammation can be totally directed against us.” Macmillan adds “this type of harmful, chronic inflammation can have a number of causes, including a virus or bacteria, an autoimmune disorder, sugary and fatty foods, or the way you handle stress” (http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20898778,00.html#it-can-harm-your-gut–0).
Fi Jamieson-Folland D.O, is a Lifestyle Consultant, with over 26 years experience in Europe, Asia and New Zealand as a qualified osteopath, educator, writer, certified raw vegan gluten-free chef, speaker, health mentor and Health Brand Ambassador. She loves to globe-trot with her husband Chris (NZ, Australia, USA, UK + Europe and Indonesia are current favourites) relishing an outdoor lifestyle and time with family and friends.
