Inflammation is a natural defense mechanism that protects us from toxic substances accumulated in damaged tissues so that they do not spread through the body. However, when inflammation becomes chronic it can affect healthy tissues and trigger diseases such as cancer or cardiovascular diseases.
Science has identified several foods capable of reducing inflammation levels in the body:
Salmon and walnuts, which contain omega 3 fatty acids. Women are more sensitive than men to the anti-inflammatory effect of these types of fats, according to a study released in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
Citrus fruitsThey contain high doses of vitamin C, vitamin E and flavonoids that reduce tissue inflammation. In particular, Scottish scientists have shown that grapefruit consumption is associated with low levels of C-reactive protein, a key indicator of inflammation.
TomatoIt is a food rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that gives it its red color. Research recently published inBritish Journal of Nutrition revealed that the daily intake of a 330 ml glass of tomato juice for twenty days reduces the levels of the inflammatory compounds interleukin-8 (IL-8) and TNF-alpha.
Large leafy vegetables, rich in vitamin K, including spinach and lettuce, as well as broccoli.
Black rice, a variety of the cereal that reduces inflammation related to allergies or asthma because it decreases the release of histamine by at least 30%, according to a study recently published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
