Small amounts of inflammation work as a defense mechanism to heal the body. However, when the inflammation doesn’t stop, it can begin to damage healthy tissue because the body thinks it is still under attack. This chronic inflammation is the cause of many serious diseases. It can lead to heart disease, painful arthritis, and even osteoporosis. Luckily, there are several ways that it can be reduced.
Turmeric
This golden colored spice has a wonderful flavor that makes it a perfect addition to many different hearty dishes, but it doesn’t have to be used only for cooking. Turmeric is also sold in a capsule form as a health supplement. Its key active ingredient, curcumin, can block the enzymes in the body that trigger inflammation.
Ginger
Though their colors and flavors are different, ginger and turmeric are very closely related, which is why ginger also has the same anti-inflammatory compounds in it. It can also be purchased in a capsule form. However, some people enjoy drinking it in the morning as a tea because it helps to gently boost energy as well.
Milk Thistle Extract
One of the best all natural supplements for inflammation is milk thistle. This herbal supplement is most commonly known for its ability to help the liver detoxify and regenerate. It can do much more than this though. The glutathione and silymarin that it contains are powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil can reduce inflammation of the skin if it is applied externally, and it also works well internally too. However, it has to be processed using only a low or medium level of heat to be beneficial. The anti-inflammatory properties of coconut oil are destroyed when it is cooked at a high temperature. Those that wish to use it for its health properties can find it in a shelf stable capsule form or in small tubs of solid oil. It is best to get coconut oil labeled especially for health purposes because cheaper coconut cooking oils tend to have very little nutrients in them.
Green Tea Extract
Taking just a couple of capsules of green tea extract a day will prevent heart disease, fight cancer and infections, and reduce swelling from rheumatoid arthritis because of the anti-inflammatory flavonoids that it contains. It can even lower high levels of dangerous artery clogging cholesterol and effectively boost your metabolism.
Diet Changes
Besides taking all natural health supplements, the last way to reduce inflammation in the body is to make a few changes to the food choices in your diet. Sugar is a huge contributor to inflammation, so it is best to eliminate as much of it as possible. Fatty junk foods should also be replaced with healthier inflammation-reducing alternatives, such as salmon, blueberries, and avocados.
