Inflammation contributes to every major chronic condition, from heart disease to cancer to diabetes. Under normal circumstances, some inflammation is a good thing: It’s your body’s natural protective response to an illness or injury. This special edition from EatingWell presents the research-driven science surrounding the body’s inflammatory response, along with what to eat to help stave off the side effects. Here, doctors weigh in on their secrets to taming inflammation, and what lesser-known symptoms to look out for. Plus: Researchers break down the many ways that inflammation intersects with sleep, stress, weight and skin conditions. This edition also includes recipes that highlight anti-inflammatory ingredients, and some pantry staples and spices that can keep inflammation at bay.
Anti-Inflammation
Why Inflammation Matters • More than a third of Americans suffer from systematic inflammation. Experts point to lifestyle factors as a way to lessen the impact.
A Scientific Foundation • Lifestyle tweaks including a nutrient-rich diet can help stave off chronic inflammation. Research-backed advice offers simple shifts that make an impact.
Nutrient Know-How • Whether you have a chronic disease or aim to live an anti-inflammatory lifestyle, these compounds could help mitigate harmful inflammation in the body.
The Many Signs of Inflammation • Fatigue, stiff joints or weird bathroom habits could point to a larger issue.
The Stress Connection • The link between chronic stress and inflammation can take a major toll on the body. Lessening everyday anxiety can break the cycle.
The Power of Movement • Making time for regular bike rides or sprinking in some lunchtime walks can help stave off chronic inflammation.
What to Eat • The best advice for taming inflammation involves a healthy diet. But what foods should you focus on, and how should you eat them? Let this dietitian-approved advice guide you through the grocery store.
The Best Foods • Chronic inflammation doesn’t stand a chance with these powerhouses.
Understanding Turmeric • The potent powerhouse spice, available in many forms, can help tame inflammation. Dietitians explored the liquids, pills and gummies that are formulated for maximum absorption.
Standout Recipes
Powerhouse Breakfasts • Start the day with some nutrient-rich overnight oats, a sippable smoothie packed with fruit, or veggies and other anti-inflammatory foods.
Meals in a Bowl • Who doesn’t love dinner in a bowl? From creamy pasta to hearty grains, these easy meals pile on the anti-inflammatory foods.
Anti-Inflammatory Salads • Fresh, fast and flavorful, these nutrient-rich salads are satisfying and delicious.
Sheet Pan Favorites • Getting a healthy and delcious dinner on the table doesn’t have to mean piles of dishes. These roasted recipes pack plenty of powerhouse foods onto one pan.
Simmer and Savor • These satisfying soups and stews are warm, comforting and delightfuly flavorful. Plus, most are ready in less than an hour.
Sweets and Sips • Anti-inflammatory eating doesn’t stop with dinner. These desserts (and a gut-healthy mocktail!) are nutrient-rich and delicious.
A Balanced Week • Here’s a seven-day meal plan of delicious, simple anti-inflammatory recipes to help jump-start your health journey.
EatingWell
Photo Credits
For the Love of Cheese