This week when looking at Everyday Essentials for Wellbeing, I have been looking into anti-inflammatory foods and exercise — you will see this week’s Exercise of the Week is a Pilates flow specifically aimed at giving movement that calms and recharges the mind and body. But I also
want to talk about foods that will do the same and can be easily added into our diet.
I want to point out at this stage that if you suffer with inflammatory disease or auto-immune conditions where the body is often fighting against itself, some of these foods will not be suitable. For example, I have Ulcerative Colitis, so I have to be really careful what nuts, seeds, fruit and vegetables I include — which means there are a few limitations. But if you don’t have any of these
conditions or suffer with this kind of disease then fill your boots with these super foods.
Firstly, inflammation isn’t all bad — it’s your body’s way of protecting and healing itself. But when it lingers (due to stress, lack of sleep, or a not-so-nourishing diet), it can leave you feeling achy, tired, and not quite yourself. That is where anti-inflammatory foods can be the rescue remedy you are looking for. Full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants (those little
pieces of magic that protect our cells from damage), they help to soothe inflammation and promote balance.
Here are some ideas of the foods that will do just that and why:
Avocados: full of heart-healthy fats and vitamin 3, they are great for reducing inflammation and keeping your skin glowing. I can’t get enough of avocados
Berries: blueberries, strawberries and raspberries are bursting with antioxidants (see above) that help fight the free radicals (unstable molecules in the body that can damage our cells) caused by all sorts of exposure such as X-rays, cigarette smoking, air pollutants and industrial chemicals, that cause inflammation
Broccoli: I love broccoli. Unfortunately it doesn’t always love me, but I can cope with a
little and often in my diet. It is rich in sulforaphane, which is a compound that may lower inflammation and support healthy joints — your Pilates practice will appreciate broccoli in your diet. It’s also a member of the cruciferous vegetable family which help protect against cancer, heart disease and other health conditions
Turmeric: it’s golden in colour, and it contains curcumin which is a powerful anti-inflammatory
compound. Turmeric can be added to teas, soups, even sprinkled over roasted vegetables
Oily Fish: salmon, mackerel and sardines, all high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for reducing inflammation and supporting brain health, I love oily fish and it loves me
Nuts and Seeds: almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are full of healthy
fats and magnesium, helping to calm the body and reduce inflammation.
I think we can all make small changes to help us live our best lives, and if you just add a few anti-inflammatory foods into your diet, it could make a huge difference. Please feel free to share your ideas so that we can all benefit.
Have a great week folks, keep looking, moving and feeling good.
With love
Jane xx
