Allergies are in full bloom, and people are feeling the effects! If you’re one of them, I have advice that can help you reduce the congestion, itchy eyes, sniffles, and other annoying symptoms that can make this time of year a major headache. One of the most significant factors in allergy flare-ups? Inflammation. The more you can reduce inflammation in your body, the less intensely you’ll be affected this allergy season.
But before you run to the pharmacy, consider a trip to the grocery store.
(And if a pharmacy is needed, don’t feel too guilty. Occasionally, allergy medications are necessary.)
Below areΒ 10 anti-inflammatory foods that pack a punch in the fight against seasonal allergies.Β Nourish yourself with these powerful and delicious foods and enjoy better health this season and all year round.
Wild Salmon
Packed with healthy omega-3s (known for their anti-inflammatory properties), salmon will help attack excess inflammation while providing a healthy dose of your body’s good fats.
Try my Honey Salmon Bites!
Dark Chocolate
Good news for chocoholics! A study at Louisiana State University found that gut microbes in our stomachs ferment chocolate into heart-healthy, anti-inflammatory compounds that shut down genes linked to insulin resistance and inflammation.
Try myΒ Chocolate Dipped Oranges
Ginger
Working a daily total of 2 tablespoons of fresh ginger into your meals can help to reduce inflammation significantly. It provides otherΒ essential health benefitsΒ and is a spicy addition to your meals!
Try myΒ Banana Ginger Smoothie!
Broccoli
Broccoli is the poster vegetable for healthy eating. An anti-inflammatory diet it’s invaluable. It’s an antioxidant powerhouse loaded with crucial vitamins, flavonoids, and carotenoids that work to lower oxidative stress in the body and help battle both chronic inflammation and the risk of developing cancer.
Celery
Celery is loaded with antioxidants that can cure free-radical damage that contributes to inflammation and increases your risk of heart disease and cancer. It also makes for an effective home remedy against inflammatory conditions such as liver and kidney infections, joint pain, irritable bowel syndrome, skin disorders, and urinary tract infections.
Try myΒ Chicken Noodle Soup!
Blueberries
Blueberries come full of flavor and impressive health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants and contain anthocyanins that turn off inflammatory and immune genes. They can also fight aging, help combat cancer, and aid inΒ weight loss. Not too shabby.
Walnuts
ALA is a plant-based, anti-inflammatory omega-3 found in these nuts. They also provide protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals like potassium and magnesium. Their unsaturated fatty acids and phytosterols may help lower your bad LDL cholesterol levels and lower your chance of heart disease.
Add walnuts to green leafy salads drizzled with olive oil for a satisfying anti-inflammatory meal, or grab a handful for an on-the-go snack.
Try myΒ Oatmeal Surprise!
Bone Broth
You might think bone broth is just another dietary fad, but it has earned its place in your kitchen. The stock is loaded with anti-inflammatory amino acids as well as gelatin. You benefit from their ability to rebuild your gut lining and promote inflammation-fighting gut microbes. Dr. Oz offers anΒ easy-to-make chicken bone broth recipe.
Pineapple
Sweet and full of flavor, pineapple might be considered the candy of the fruit world. It contains an enzyme called bromelain that serves as a potent anti-inflammatory. It’s beneficial in reducing asthmatic symptoms, helps to relieve post-exercise inflammation, and is even being linked as a possible effective cancer-fighting agent.
Try myΒ Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Salad!
Bok Choy
Last on this list, but one of the top anti-inflammatory foods. Also known as Chinese cabbage, it’s an excellent source of antioxidant vitamins and minerals. It nourishes with omega-3s and Vitamin K, which help lower unwanted inflammation. It has a sweet, mild flavor that makes it a great addition to most dishes. It just might become your next go-to ingredient!
Green Foods That May Power Cells Like Plants
Be a Health Hero and use the power of food to fight inflammation and seasonal allergies! And remember that while allergy medications are sometimes needed, using food as medicine is a powerful and natural way to improve your health, nourish your body and add more happiness to your life no matter the season.
Make healthy living a part of every day.
The light in me honors the light in you. Namaste.
Dr. Nandi
Partha’s Rx
- Get cooking.Β Incorporate healthy new recipes into your life. Making (and eating!) nutritious meals with your tribe is an excellent way to bond while improving your health.
- Get creative.Β Plan to give each of the anti-inflammatory foods listed above a try over the next few months. Try using them in different dishes to keep things fresh and exciting.
- Get on the path to becoming a Health Hero.Β Using food as medicine and prioritizing nutrition is one of the best ways to take care of yourself. Commit to incorporating healthy nutrition into your daily routine and reap the benefits!
