There’s not a day goes by when a newspaper, magazine or health expert mentions the benefits of an anti-inflammatory diet. But what exactly is this type of diet and why is it important to follow one?
We asked our nutritional therapist, celebrity-favourite Dominique Ludwig. Here’s what she had to say:
“Inflammation is part of the normal immune response by the body and is an essential part of tissue healing. If inflammation is allowed to build up in the body it can increase the risk of a number of common disorders such as obesity, sport injury, heart disease, arthritis and joint pain as well as autoimmune or inflammatory disease. This can mean the body could have an over-reaction to injury, but can also lead to increased risk of systemic inflammation.”
So if inflammation is priority for you, what does Dominique advise? Here are just a few of her suggestions when it comes to diet.
Five a day
Vegetables are the best anti-inflammatory food we can consume. We should aim for half a plate at lunch and dinner and, if possible, a portion at breakfast. We should aim for FIVE portions of vegetables a day.
Eat a rainbow
The more colourful the vegetable, the more of an effect it is likely to have. Choose red cabbage over white cabbage, red onions over white ones, purple and orange carrots, beetroot, dark green vegetables such as kale and broccoli.
It’s a raw deal
Vegetables can be eaten cooked or raw in salads, as soups, juices , smoothies or as crudities. If you need inspiration, check out Delish for great recipe ideas.
Hide and seek
Try to sneak some vegetables into your breakfast (grated carrot or zucchini in your porridge, spinach, mushrooms and red pepper with your omelette, carrot sticks with your rye bread and mackerel pate.
Switch it up
Try adding extra vegetables to your plate such as sauerkraut, cooked beetroot, avocado, carrot sticks etc
Concentrated sources
Some foods contain concentrated sources of anti-inflammatory substances. These include: pineapple, papaya, turmeric and ginger. Add these to your meals and smoothies.
Get fruity
Fruits are also anti-inflammatory , however also can contain high amounts of sugar if eaten in excess. The colourful parts of fruit and vegetables often contain the highest anti-inflammatory potential. Berries are the most beneficial fruits. Enjoy blackcurrants, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries.
If you would like more advise on eating for better health book in for a consultation with Dominique. These one-to-ones give you the opportunity to discuss at length any health and diet concerns you may have. Dominique will work with you to devise a lifestyle plan to optimise your health and wellbeing. Book now on 01243 771455 or email info@www.meyerclinic.co.uk
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