Anti-Inflammatory living is one of the best measures you can do to maintain a healthy weight, prevent disease, and decrease pain and swelling in the body. In addition to following an anti-inflammatory diet, there are a few natural anti-inflammatories that deserve extra recognition.
Curcumin is a heavy hitter when it comes to decreasing inflammation. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric, which helps make turmeric anti-inflammatory. Turmeric can be added to the diet to make dishes more colorful and flavorful. One of my favorite ways to consume a healthy dose of curcumin is with Golden Milk.
Golden Milk Recipe
1 can coconut milk - full fat
1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk
2 tsp ground turmeric
1/4 tsp ground ginger
1 cinnamon stick
a pinch of black pepper
Maple Syrup to sweeten, as desired
Add all ingredients to a medium saucepan. Whisk to combine. Heat over medium-high heat until hot, but not boiling (about 4 minutes). Pour into mugs & Enjoy!
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Omega 3s are another potent anti-inflammatory. They can be found in cold-water fatty fish, such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel. These fish in particular are highest in fats because they live in the coldest water. This extra fat helps to decrease pain and inflammation in the body, improve skin and hair health, and helps lower high cholesterol.
Turmeric and omega 3s are a great place to start, but to decrease inflammation in the entire body, it comes down to diet. This is not a fad diet. It's a lifestyle shift and an investment in yourself. What we put into our bodies has a lasting effect on our future health and well-being. This is why I'm a food nerd! There are so many good things to put into our bodies and so many delicious ways to create food. To take a deeper dive into reducing inflammation in your body, give the anti-inflammatory diet a try. Take baby steps, bits and pieces, and see how you feel. Your body will thank you!