How To Incorporate Anti-Inflammatory Foods into Summertime

What is Inflammation? 

Inflammation is a normal, biological response that is triggered by the immune system. This defense mechanism is initiated when there are signs of pathogens, damaged tissues, or irritants. Our immune systems are able to notice signs of invaders and begin to attack in hopes of helping our body heal. As you could imagine, an issue occurs when the attack is happening when it’s not supposed to. A poor diet and unhealthy lifestyle habits can cause confusion between the systems that make up our bodies which causes the immune system to overwork. This can show up on the surface differently in each body.

It’s important to notice your own body’s triggers. Inflammation can show up in many different forms: puffiness, bloating, anxiety, fatigue, the list goes on! 

 

The good news is.. there are ways to combat inflammation and fuel your body so that it works for you and not against you. 

 

Sunshine, Shades, and Superfoods: Anti-inflammatory Foods in Summertime!

There are lots of ways to incorporate superfoods into your lives when the summer heat starts to kick it up a notch and you might be consuming more alcoholic beverages than usual! Here are a few foods to keep you hydrated and reduce the effects that the irritants hanging out in your body may cause!

 

Pomegranate

Not only do pomegranates contain anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties, they are packed full of antioxidants, and nutrients such as Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Folate and Potassium. You can mix them in your yogurt or oats for breakfast or addthem to a salad later in the day!

Cucumbers

I chose cucumbers because you can incorporate them into so many meals and snacks. They contain lots of water, so they are perfect for a hot summer day. Slice them up and put them in your water with a mint leaf, dip them in hummus or add them to a big salad! The best part? You can find them at your local farmer’s market right now if you don’t have them growing in a garden of your own. It’s a win-win!

Summer Squash

This superfood contains many vitamins and minerals that are known to help give you an energy boost! Phosphorus, magnesium, Vitamin A, and C to name a few. What more could we want after being out in the midwest July heat? Summer squash is in season right now, so while you’re grabbing cucumbers at your local farmer’s market, look for this one too! They can be eaten raw, put in a skillet with olive oil, or in the oven. Be sure to sprinkle them with your favorite dried herbs! 

As you can see, our most important tip for decreasing inflammation in the body is to increase your fruit and vegetable consumption! Drink plenty of water and relax. Being too hard on yourself about what you’re eating can have a negative impact too. Make the memories, choose the superfoods, and splurge here and there.

If you want to learn more about eating an anti-inflammatory diet, check out our Nutrition program here. (Insert Link)

In Strength and Confidence, 

Harley