Key Principles
- Balance blood sugar: steady meals, limited refined carbs.
- Healthy fats: focus on omega-3s and anti-oxidative oils.
- Plant-forward: fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices with strong anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Minimal processing: choose whole, nutrient-dense foods over ultra-processed ones.
Foods to Emphasize
- Fruits & Veggies: berries, cherries, oranges, leafy greens, cruciferous veggies (broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts).
- Whole Grains: oats, quinoa, brown rice.
- Healthy Fats: olive oil, avocado, nuts, seeds (especially flax, chia, walnuts).
- Fatty Fish: salmon, sardines, mackerel (rich in omega-3).
- Legumes: lentils, beans, chickpeas.
- Spices & Herbs: turmeric, ginger, garlic, cinnamon.
- Tea & Coffee (moderate): green tea, black tea, coffee can have anti-inflammatory polyphenols.
Foods to Limit or Avoid
- Refined Carbs: white bread, pastries, sweetened cereals.
- Sugary Drinks & Snacks: soda, candy, desserts.
- Red & Processed Meats: sausages, bacon, deli meats.
- Excess Omega-6 Oils: soybean, corn, sunflower oils (in excess, they may fuel inflammation).
- Fried & Ultra-Processed Foods: chips, fast food.
- Excess Alcohol.
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