Inflammation can be due to a variety of medical conditions, and is a major source of body aches and pains. Many people seek relief through over-the-counter and prescription anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen, which can have side effects when taken for extended periods of time. There are natural ways you can help fight inflammation, such as by getting daily exercise and making changes in your diet. The following highlights some of the problems inflammation can cause in the body, as well as foods that are known to help.

How Inflammation Affects The Body

Health.com reports that inflammation and swelling is the way your body responds to outside threats. It can be triggered by stressful conditions, by injuries or illnesses you suffer from, or from exposure to toxins in the environment. In addition to contributing to obesity and causing muscle aches and pains, inflammation can result in the following:

• Stomach and digestive disorders, such as inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease;
• Joint disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA);
• Clogged arteries and heart disease;
• Increased risk of cancer;
• Sleep disorders;
• Respiratory illnesses, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Inflammation can also impact your outward appearance. It can cause gum disease leading to tooth loss, skin conditions such as psoriasis, and contributes to the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of aging.

Foods That Can Help Reduce Inflammation

Harvard Medical School advises that eating refined carbohydrates, fried foods, red meat, and drinking soda can all contribute to inflammation. To help reduce it, stick to a diet that includes the following:

• Leafy greens, such as spinach, collards, and kale;
• Fresh fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, apples, and oranges;
• Nuts, including almonds and walnuts;
• Fatty fish, such as salmon and mackerel.

Stick to whole grains when it comes to breads and cereals, and substitute olive oil for cooking oil or margarine. Coffee, consumed in reasonable properties, also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Harvard doctors claim that by sticking to a more natural, Mediterranean style diet as outlined above, you can lower your risk of inflammation, as well as conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, while improving your overall mood and mental functioning.

Schedule an Appointment At Care Family Medical and Chiropractic Today

If you are suffering from pain and discomfort due to inflammation, contact Care Family Medical and Chiropractic today. Our Tulsa pain management doctor takes a holistic approach in helping you get the safe, effective treatment you need.