What we eat can affect how we feel both emotionally & physically. Current science suggests you can eat yourself "happy" and use certain foods to decrease inflammation in your body. Research investigating the diet-disease relationship has supported a whole food diet approach. These are foods in their natural form: fresh & unprocessed. Highly processed foods and processed sugars have been shown to increase inflammation, whereas other foods can reduce inflammation.
Anti-inflammation foods include:
- Herbs: ginger, cinnamon, cloves, oregano, chilli, garlic, curry, turmeric
- Fish with high fat contents (omega 3): salmon, sardines, tuna
- Nuts & seeds high in omega 3: almonds, walnuts, macadamias, linseeds, chia seeds, coconut
- Fruit: berries, pineapple, lemon
- Greens (especially dark leafy, cultured vegetables): broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, kale, cabbage, bok choy
- Fats/Oils: The body needs fat to absorb vitamin A, D, E and K. Be careful with low fat products as this often means added sugar and more processing. Fat and protein keeps you fuller and satisfied for longer, consequently lowering cravings.
Read labels - higher numbers of ingredienct often equals more additives, more highly processed substances and a high sugar content. Be creative; do your own research but be careful consulting "Dr. Google" - your health care professional is trained in the scientific research of diet.