Have you noticed any changes in your body? Maybe you feel a little sluggish as if something is sapping your energy.
Or have you felt bloated and perhaps a little frustrated by not seeing any results from dieting and working out? This could be due to something in your diet.
Certain foods might be predisposing you to inflammation and this leads to tiredness. Health experts have devised an anti-inflammatory diet pyramid to help you make the right dietary choices. Read on to learn what to eat and what to avoid.
The Link Between Inflammation and Diet
Inflammation is an immune process that our body utilizes in response to injury or infection. However, swelling, pain, and loss of function are inherent in this process.
Furthermore, certain conditions lead to uncontrolled inflammation which can have serious health effects.
Interestingly, scientists have discovered that there are particular foods that promote inflammation and others that actively reduce it. Consuming non-inflammatory food could be the key to improving health.
The Anti-Inflammatory Diet Pyramid Explained
This pyramid was designed several years ago by Dr. Weil to help people who are interested in the vegetarian anti-inflammatory diet but don’t quite know where to begin.
It acts as a guide for people of all ages and body types. It’s so easy that anyone can do it. If Tom Brady vouches for it, why not give it a shot?
Like the original food pyramid, the different food groups are arranged in a triangle-shaped chart. The foods near the bottom of the chart can be eaten in greater amounts. Foods near the top are meant to be eaten more sparingly.
What to Eat
The good news is that there are plenty of delicious foods that you can essentially eat as much as you want. Also, you don’t necessarily need to do a strict vegan anti-inflammatory diet to enjoy the benefits.
As you might expect, fruits and vegetables are among the foods you should try to eat several times a day. Good fats are also acceptable. This includes olive oil and walnuts.
Can I Still Eat Meat?
This is a common question for people starting any new diet. The answer is yes, there are options for meat-eaters but not all meat is made equal.
Wild Alaskan salmon is one of the best options for your anti-inflammatory grocery list. Not only does it taste delicious, but it’s also packed with vitamins and nutrients with anti-inflammatory properties.
There is a little room for chicken and lean meats but only once or twice a week. You should still definitely find a great vegan restaurant if you’re serious about making a lifestyle change.
Does Wine Cause Inflammation?
Wine lovers rejoice! But before you throw a party, remember this. A glass or two of red wine can have an anti-inflammatory effect but after that, it can be harmful.
Aside from all the other health effects, excess alcohol can actually have a pro-inflammatory effect.
Things to Avoid
Deep-fried foods, soda, and other ultra-processed foods are pro-inflammatory and are best avoided.
Change How You Eat, Change How You Feel
You don’t have to feel like crud the rest of your life. The key to feeling better might be to changing your diet.
Take the time to study the anti-inflammatory diet pyramid. See how it relates to your current diet.
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