Inflammation in the body seems to be a more common ailment than I thought.  And even though inflammation is the body’s natural way of trying to heal itself, we often considered it painful, uncomfortable and annoying.  Inflammation is part of the body’s immune response.  It is our instinct to want to reduce the swelling caused from inflammation, but when it occurs from an injury, it is sometimes better to leave it be and let the body take control of the healing process.  Without inflammation infections and wounds wouldn’t be able to heal.  However, it is a much different story in someone that deals with inflammation from an autoimmune disease. 

Unfortunately, the inflammation in the body tends to do more damage than repairs because it confuses good cells for bad ones, thus attacking the good healthy cells.  Living with autoimmune diseases myself, I find it’s important to know what changes in diet and nutrition can be made to help reduce the onset and duration of the inflammation.  It is also important to find what works best for you and keeping a food log is a great way to find a trend in your dietary and inflammation instances.  Here are some foods believed to help reduce inflammation:

Fruit- all fruit is believe to help because of the high content of antioxidants but especially berries and cherries!
Tomatoes- cooked may even be better than raw because it has a higher content of lycopene
Beets- high antioxidants, fiber and vitamin C
Garlic- some studies show that garlic has similar effects of NSAID medications
Turmeric and Ginger- various studies show these spices have anti-inflammatory properties
Almonds- fiber, calcium, vitamin E and antioxidants
Walnuts- high amounts of omega-3 fat
Salmon- high in omega 3 fatty acids
Cocoa-contains flavanols which reduce inflammation; you should choose at least 70% pure cocoa
Green Tea- contains antioxidants