Inflammation is characterized by the swelling, pain and warmth that happens when the immune system reacts to an infection or injury. It is a natural response of the body. It can, however, be a significant problem for people with many existing ailments. For sufferers of arthritis, hypertension, heart disease, asthma, diabetes and many other illnesses, inflammation can be a significant health event. If you observe a few simple guidelines and take a few important steps it can go a long way toward combatting this annoying and potentially dangerous symptom.
Home Remedies and Healthy Cooking
There are a number of home remedies and general healthful practices that can cut the incidence and severity of inflammation. The application of heat or cold to a specific swollen joint or other affected area can be helpful in reducing inflammation. One of the anti-inflammatory diets from Lifescript suggests spices like turmeric and ginger. They can be used in cooking or simply brewed in tea. However, both turmeric and ginger have blood-thinning properties and should be used with care. Other dietary suggestions include healthy substitutions for current snack habits, like replacing potato chips with healthy nuts.
Fiber is the Enemy of Inflammation
The USDA has not established a specific amount of fiber that makes up a truly high-fiber diet. At least 15 grams of fiber per 1000 calories is usually recommended as a good rule. Be aware that many products that advertise themselves as a “good source of fiber” need only contain 2.5 grams of dietary fiber per serving. That isn’t a difficult standard to meet. A product marketed as an “excellent source of fiber” must by law contain at least 20% per serving of the USDA recommended dietary fiber amount.
A Diet is What You Eat
The anti-inflammatory diets from Lifescript recommend basic, healthy dietary habits that will lessen inflammation as well as improve general health. High fiber foods, lean meats, antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits, healthy legumes, healthy fats and many other healthful options all go toward longer lifespans and better quality of life.
Anti-Inflammatory Last Words
Exercise can also be a helpful weapon against inflammation by improving circulation. Injuries during exercise can sometimes cause inflammation, however, triggering even more problems. This can even bring about chronic water retention, which is itself an irritant to existing diseases.
Most of the guidelines for battling inflammation are simply helpful rules for improving health. Everyone should follow them. A personal physician should always be consulted before adopting any new health regimen.