Question:

Updated on
November 1, 2011

Are there foods that can help reduce inflammation?

My body has been fighting internal inflammation for years. Over the past couple of months I have now developed extremely painful arthritis in my shoulder, elbows, wrists and fingers. I know it is caused by my inflammation. 10 days ago i began a vegan diet in the hopes to combat this painful affliction, however i have not seen any relief so far. Actually the severity of pain remains and now more consistant. Today i was at the health food store and the lady working there spoke to me about Nightshades. She told me to remove them from my diet. Do you have more information on this connection? Are there specific tests i can take to help me identify my issues? I desperately look for your help. I am committed to making the necessary changes to get better but feel very confused.

Answer:

Inflammation is at the heart of many metabolic diseases and conditions. As someone who has suffered from chronic inflammation myself, I can identify with your painful symptoms. The good news is that diet and some supplementation can make a huge difference.

I recommend consulting with a natural doctor or specialist for specific advice for your condition. There are, nevertheless, some general guidelines that you can try:

Overall, you'll want to consume whole foods, not processed or manufactured ones. Organic foods should be your first choice in general, for both meat and vegetables (meat is not generally an inflammation promoter, as long as you stick with traditionally-raised and pastured (grass-fed) sources). Avoid sugar, artificial sweeteners, vegetable oils, trans-fats, refined foods and deep-fried foods.

Yes, eliminate nightshades (tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, eggplant, tobacco) from your vegetable selections. Nightshades contain an alkaloid called solanine that can trigger problems in some individuals. Also eliminate grains (even whole grains) from your diet, as grains are known to contain lectins and anti-nutrients that promote inflammation. This will include all breads, pasta, rice, cereals, oats, or anything containing flour or gluten. You'll get plenty of carbohydrates from vegetables and fruits.

Finally, I would (at least in the short term) eliminate some of the other common food sensitivity triggers (dairy products, peanuts, shellfish, etc). While you may be able to tolerate these products personally, it is best to eliminate them at first, get your inflammation under control, and see if you're able to add them back later.

What can you eat? Organic sources of meat, poultry, fish, eggs, tons of vegetables, nuts and seeds, and some fruit. Don't forget to get plenty of omega-3s in the form of oily fish, avocados, olive oil, and other sources. I also recommend taking a good fish-oil twice a day, in liquid form, as this is a known inflammation-fighter.

Finally, turmeric and ginger are known to help keep inflammation at bay; you may want to try incorporating more of those spices in your diet.

Response by Greg Carver

Disclaimer:

Before starting any new health program or before you begin taking any medication, natural medicine, or supplement, always check with your primary health care provider.