Discussion about anti-inflammatory
foods is becoming more and more common these days especially among older
adults.
Often the question is ask “What are
the best anti-inflammatory foods to eat to help reduce my risk of cancer?”
Nutrients and phytochemicals with potential
antioxidant or anti-inflammatory effects include: Vitamins C and E, selenium,
and carotenoids. Also a wide range of plant compounds, including polyphenols in
tea, berries, onions, nuts, grapes, and spices such as turmeric and ginger. In
laboratory studies, these activate antioxidant defenses and reduce inflammatory
cell-signaling pathways, but more human studies are needed to clarify whether
these foods or spices are truly anti-inflammatory. Foods with Omega-3 fatty
acids are also very popular as being anti-inflammatory, though human studies
haven’t found a consistent link with lowering cancer risk.
What
we do know is that eating a well-balanced diet is our best defense. Studies suggest that excessive amounts of red
and processed meats, refined grains, and sugar-sweetened beverages may act
through a variety of mechanisms to increase inflammation. Increasing dietary
fiber, especially soluble and more easily fermented fiber, may play an
important role in reducing inflammation. Lastly, maintaining a reasonable body
weight while reducing excessive body fat, namely visceral fat deep within the
abdomen, may play a protective role in reducing cancer risk.
At Morrison Community Living, we
use the most up-to-date and current evidence based information in our menu
development. Our menus are designed to
be healthy, nourishing and flavor-packed with a strong emphasis on providing
fresh foods to promote well-being.
For more information on
anti-inflammatory diets click here: http://www.todaysdietitian.com/newarchives/0118p12.shtml
Erin Van Valkenburgh, RDN CSG CDP - Director of Clinical and Wellness Support -
Mid West Region