Foods that Help Heal Pain and Inflammation Binbrook
Our body’s inflammatory response is an essential function that helps us heal from injuries and wounds. However, when our immune system goes into overdrive and starts attacking healthy tissues in the body, inflammation can lead to pain and a host of chronic disease. These include arthritis, heart disease, dementia and certain cancers.
In addition to minimizing exposure to environmental and other toxins, quitting smoking and managing stress, eating foods that support healing and minimize inflammation in the body is our first line of defence. Here are some of the top foods you should be eating on a regular basis to help heal pain and inflammation.
Green vegetables (cruciferous) top the list of anti-inflammatory foods. There are many options in this category, including broccoli, kale, swiss chard, arugula, collard greens, dandelion and rapini.
Berries have a range of beneficial properties, high in fibre, as well as phytonutrients and antioxidants such as quercetin. They have been shown in studies to slow cognitive decline and support the growth of healthy gut bacteria.
Coconut oil, a healthy fat, has antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Its essential fatty acids help optimize the health of the digestive tract where most inflammatory disease begins. Other oils rich in essential fats, such as avocado and extra-virgin olive oil that are rich in monounsaturated fats, are also good options.
Fermented foods such as kefir, kimchi, kombucha, and sauerkraut also protect against inflammation in the body by helping to increase the good bacteria in the gut.
Spices such as these Two standouts in of ginger and turmeric, both considered to have particularly powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin is the active component in turmeric and exhibits many therapeutic benefits from remeotid artirithis, to protection of
Garlic is a plant food (sometimes considered to be a spice) that has been enjoyed as a healing food for centuries, and for good reason. Studies have borne out that it has antibacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal and antioxidant properties. Garlic contains allicin, which has a beneficial effect on cholesterol and the circulatory system, protecting against heart attack and stroke.
Shiitake mushrooms contain ergothioneine, a compound which has been shown to inhibit oxidative stress and relieve inflammation.
Wild-caught salmon and black cod are an excellent source of omega-3 essential fatty acids, a key to reducing inflammation. Another good option is small fish such as herring, sardines and anchovies, which have had less exposure to heavy metals such as mercury.
Walnuts are another great source of omega-3s and phytonutrients which help protect against cognitive decline and help prevent systemic inflammation.
Bone broth, is made by boiling the bones of organic, grass-fed beef or poultry for a number of hours. It contains collagen trace minerals and amino acids to help heal an inflamed gut.
Seeds — So-called “super seeds” such as chia, hemp and flax, offer an excellent balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as being loaded with fibre, antioxidants, vegetarian protein and trace minerals that support heart health.
As well as eating these foods, of course it is important to avoid foods known to promote inflammation in the body. These include processed and refined foods, white starches, and sugar. Consider testing for food allergies and intolerances, which may cause or worsen inflammation.
If inflammation and related disease is a significant concern for you, you may wish to consider additional naturopathic approaches to manage and reduce pain and inflammation, including nutritional supplements and certain IV therapies. Consult with your naturopathic doctor in Binbrook or Burlington to learn more.
