You are special and your body knows it. Your defense mechanism, your immune system, is actively fighting off foreign microbes, pollen, and chemicals which, in turn, cause the inflammatory response. Small doses, defined as acute inflammation, protect your health. This is completely normal.

The issue lies with a chronic and persistent inflammatory response which is unhealthy. It can cause problems in almost every organ in your body and is linked to major diseases like cancer, heart disease, arthritis, depression, and diabetes. Doctors are continually learning about new approaches to inflammation and how to treat it. One of the best approaches is to focus on what you eat. There are so many foods that can help you reduce inflammation and you can buy them at the store today. Help your body from the inside with these healthy anti-inflammatory foods:

Tomatoes

Contains phytochemical and lycopene which have impressive anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Olive Oil

Oleocanthal is a compound found in olive oil. This prevents the production of enzymes that cause inflammation. To gain the most benefits it is best not to heat this oil as it breaks down the compound.

Berries

There is a compound in berries called Anthocyanins which possess anti-inflammatory properties. Anthocyanins are also responsible for the distinctive colors of red, blue, and purple in berries. So go colorful today and grab two healthy handfuls of your favorite berry. Eat fresh, frozen, or blend to make a smoothie.

Green Leafy Vegetables

Spinach, kale, and collard greens are perfect examples which all contain significant concentrations of vitamins and other nutrients that have been found to reduce chronic inflammation. Heating can destroy some of the nutrients, but can also make these easier to heat. Whatever way you like them, eat your greens!

Nuts

Very nutrient dense, nuts give us a high percentage of good, healthy fat and provide elements which have a major anti-inflammatory effect. Go ahead and eat a few handfuls of almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, and peanuts to provide you with an excellent source of vitamin E which is a powerful antioxidant and has been proven to reduce inflammation. What a perfect snack idea!

Fatty Fish

Fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, anchovies, or trout all are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids which has been proven to lower chronic inflammation.

Eat these foods on a daily basis and heal your body from the inside. Happy eating!