by Charles Ray

Created on: May 16, 2009   Last Updated: May 22, 2009

Chronic inflammation is a root cause of many debilitating diseases, including cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, age-related diseases, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus. Simple changes in your dietary habits can counteract chronic inflammation.

An anti-inflammatory diet, while it will do little to reduce your expanding waistline, can promote better health and help prevent certain diseases. The scientific evidence to support the disease-reducing effects of an anti-inflammatory diet are still being studied, according to the medical website,

WebMD, but it is clear that inflammation plays a significant role with respect to certain diseases.

In simple terms, inflammation is a localized tissue reaction to injury or trauma. This 'irritation' causes the tissues to release substances that activate the microphage system, which produces substances to dispose of damaged tissue. Unfortunately, they also further injure healthy tissue and cells.

The average American's diet is far too high in fats from processed and fast foods, and too low in foods rich in the good fats from omega-3 fatty acids, which raise levels of good cholesterol while lowering bad cholesterol and triglycerides. A diet based on anti-inflammatory foods, in addition to lowering the risk of chronic inflammation, can provide the essential vitamins and minerals for overall better health and long life.

Moderate exercise, weight loss, and medication can reduce inflammation and pain, but prevention through a healthy diet is the best cure.

Foods that reduce inflammation

Foods made from whole grains, such as barley, wild rice, oats, and whole wheat help to reduce the oxidants in the body that contribute to inflammation, and are a good source of fiber which aids in digestion.

Nuts, like walnuts and pumpkin seeds; legumes, such as pinto beans and lentils; and fresh fruits and vegetables (preferably free of toxic chemicals and fertilizer), in addition to their anti-inflammatory qualities, are a rich source of anti-oxidants like vitamin C which helps to reduce cell damage.

Seafood like salmon and mackerel is rich is omega-3 fatty acids which act to control cholesterol levels. This is important in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Water makes up 75% of the earth's surface, but is usually thought of only for slaking our thirst. This, the most common of the elements, however, is essential to the proper function of every part of the body. Water, free of chemical additives, helps in the elimination of waste, acts as a transfer medium for other essential elements, and is necessary for basic cell functioning.

Lean chicken, with the skin removed, is a good source of protein. Protein, like water, serves a number of essential functions in the body's growing and healing processes.

Whenever you are considering a change in your eating habits, it is strongly recommended that your first consult your primary care physician. By following your doctor's advice, along with a regimen of proper diet, moderate exercise, stress reduction, and adequate rest, you could reap benefits that lead to a longer, healthier life.

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