What is an anti-inflammatory diet?

An anti inflammatory diet is based on plenty of vegetables and fruits, some lean meats and dairy, and whole grains. It eliminates refined foods and is low in sugar and stocked with foods low on the glycemic index scale. It is often said to resemble a Mediterranean diet as it does promote the use of healthy oils. A typical day of an anti-inflammatory diet may look like this

• Breakfast: 3 wedges of cantaloupe melon, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup cooked oatmeal
• Lunch: 3 cups spinach and salad greens, 4 ounces tuna or salmon, mixed vegetables, 2 tablespoons olive oil vinaigrette
• Snack: 1 apple with natural peanut butter or greek style yogurt
• Dinner: 4 ounces grilled chicken with lemon, 1/2 cup cooked brown rice, 1 cup steamed vegetables

An anti-inflammatory diet helps to keep blood sugar levels stable thereby keeping the metabolism running higher and energy levels stable as well.

An anti-inflammatory diet consists of foods that will create anti-inflammatory prostaglandins rather than pro-inflammatory prostaglandins. Prostaglandins, made from dietary fats, have many functions; for example, they are involved in vasodilation, bronchodilation, inflammatory reactions and the regulation of cell proliferation. The main idea of an anti-inflammatory diet is to avoid "bad" fats and to consume only "good" fats.

You should read product labels, and discuss all therapies with a qualified healthcare provider. Natural Standard information does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

While there are different versions of an anti-inflammatory diet, here are a few key guidelines:

• Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
• Eat a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish or fish oil supplements and walnuts
• Eat plenty of whole grains such as brown rice and bulgur wheat
• Eat lean protein sources such as beans, lentils, legumes, soy products, chicken; cut back on red meat and full-fat dairy foods
• Minimize saturated and trans fats
• Avoid refined foods and processed foods
• Alcohol in moderation
• Add a variety of spices, especially ginger and curry