4 Foods PROVEN to Fight Inflammation
We all want to feel good in our body, but let's admit it, we also want to look good. The way we connect to our looks is part of how we feel, right? Well, one of the questions I get asked a lot by my private clients is, "How can I get rid of this puffiness around my eyes / in my face / insert trouble spot of your own?". Of course, there are tons of products on the market that are telling us what to put ON these trouble spots, but you know that I am going to tell you that what you put IN your body is where it all starts.
Before we look at what can help to decrease puffiness let's take just two
seconds to give service to what can CAUSE it: excessive sugar and caffeine. If
you swear you do not really use either and you still find your self with bags around
your eyes: First, really double check the content of your food. Sugar is sneaky. It
likes to hide-out under other names and guises. Second, check with your own
practitioner or specialist to help you understand what is happening for you
specifically.
Now let's look at four foods that will help fight inflammation for good!
1. Broccoli – is excellent for reducing eye inflammation. This great green
veggie contains double the vitamin C of an orange and just about as much calcium
as a glass of whole milk. Best to be bought (and used!) With bright, green florets and
firm stalks. ** Extra Tip ** Steamed al dente is the best way to go. Raw is
hard to digest. Cooked any other way and you lose all those great nutrients.
2. Grapes – when it comes to reducing inflammation we are really talking
about the juice part of the grape, but NOT store packaged grape juice. Grapes
contain vitamin A, B-Complex and C and relieve any swelling in the throat, mouth,
gums and eyes. (Grapes are done ripening once they are picked so choose a mature
bunch when buying!)
3. Hemp Oil – let me say right away that this is not marijuana being
talked about here. Hemp oil is loaded with our friends Omega 3's (more than flax)
but also has what is called GLA's (gamma-linoleic acid) which stimulate the growth
of healthy hair, skin AND reduce inflammation. Use on salads, baked root
vegetables and as a dressing. ** Extra Tip ** Do not use it for cooking and
you are not getting the benefits if you take it in capsule form.
4. Job's Tears – sounds like a magic potion, does not it? It is actually a
whole grain! Before it is hulled it has a black, sturdy case which earned it the great
name. Once hulled, it looks more like barley. You may have even had it at one time
and thought you were having just plain old barley soup. This grain is wonderful for
cooling any inflammation and can also be very helpful for those suffering with
arthritis.
4 Foods PROVEN to Fight Inflammation by Heather Dominick
