06/28/2025
Eat to Heal: Anti-Inflammatory Foods That Actually Make a Difference
When your body is inflamed, it’s not just an ache here or a twinge there—it’s a signal. Chronic inflammation can show up as joint pain, fatigue, brain fog, and even contribute to long-term conditions like heart disease, autoimmune issues, and digestive problems.
Here’s the good news: what you eat can make a real difference.
Certain foods naturally help calm inflammation and support your body’s healing process. These aren’t fads or trends—they’re nutrient-dense, whole foods that have stood the test of time.
Top Anti-Inflammatory Foods to Include:
Berries – Packed with antioxidants and fiber, blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries help fight oxidative stress.
Fatty Fish – Salmon, sardines, and mackerel are rich in omega-3s that directly reduce inflammatory markers.
Leafy Greens – Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are full of vitamins and phytonutrients your body craves.
Nuts and Seeds – Almonds, walnuts, flaxseed, and chia are small but mighty, loaded with healthy fats and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Sweet Potatoes – A great source of complex carbs, fiber, and vitamin C, they help fuel your body without triggering spikes in blood sugar.
Green Tea – Known for its powerful antioxidant EGCG, green tea is a calming, anti-inflammatory drink choice.
Olive Oil – Rich in oleocanthal, a compound that acts similarly to anti-inflammatory drugs (but without the side effects). Make sure its not rancid to get high quality oil. Also, make sure you use this in raw form and its not heated.
Garlic and Onions – These two contain sulfur compounds that help reduce inflammation and boost immune health.
What to Avoid:
Just as some foods reduce inflammation, others tend to fan the flames:
🚫 Ultra-processed snacks
🚫 Refined sugar and carbs
🚫 Trans fats and seed oils
🚫 Excessive alcohol