In today's world, the terms "inflammation" or "anti-inflammatory foods" have gained popularity. Inflammation is a natural response by our body's immune system to protect against injuries and infections. In simple terms, inflammation is like a superhero response from your body when it's trying to fight off bad stuff. Imagine you get a cut on your finger. Your body sends out some special cells to repair it so that your finger recovers quickly. That's inflammation at work! While acute inflammation is crucial for healing, chronic inflammation can lead to various health issues such as heart disease.
Also Read: 5 Eating Habits That Cause Inflammation. Stop Now!
The foods we eat play a crucial role in either fueling or alleviating inflammation inside our bodies. So, we need to incorporate the best foods into our diet to help our bodies protect and heal themselves without overdoing it. And what better way to do so than by eating vegetables? Intrigued? Read on to learn about 5 vegetables that can help reduce inflammation in our bodies.
Bell peppers can help fight chronic inflammation.
Photo Credit: iStock
Here Are 5 Vegetables That Reduce Inflammation:
1. Bell Peppers
Loaded with vitamins A and C and antioxidants, bell peppers, also known as capsicums, can help reduce inflammation in your body and provide protection against degenerative diseases. This claim has been backed by a 2021 research study published in the Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences that concluded that bell peppers possess anti-inflammatory and pain-suppressing properties. Not only do they offer health benefits, but bell peppers also add flavor and crunch while bringing vibrancy to your food! Want to include bell peppers in your diet? Click here for some easy recipes.
2. Carrots
Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, a pigment that converts into vitamin A in our bodies. According to a 2018 research study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, vitamin A is known for its anti-inflammatory qualities, helping in inflammation management and supporting a healthy immune system. Whether grated, chopped, or eaten as is, carrots add a delightful crunch to your dishes. Love carrots? Find some easy recipes here.
3. Beets
Delightfully reddish-purple, beets add a unique earthy sweetness to dishes. According to a 2021 review published in the Food Science and Nutrition journal, beets contain a compound called betalains that has been shown to lower inflammation in the body. You can roast, boil, or grate raw beet into salads, raitas, or even parathas. Love beetroots? Find some easy recipes here.
Beets are not just delicious but also help reduce inflammation.
Photo Credit: iStock
4. Tomatoes
Packed with essential nutrients, tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant known for its strong anti-inflammatory properties. According to a 2023 study published in the journal Nutrients, high amounts of lycopene can reduce inflammation and the risk of chronic cardiovascular diseases. Find some easy-to-make tomato recipes here.
5. Onions
According to a 2022 research study published in the journal Molecules, a compound present in onions, quercetin, is known to have anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, onions are also rich in vitamin C, which can help support your immune system. Onions add a deep flavor to dishes and also contain prebiotic fibers that are beneficial for your gut health.
Also Read: High-Fiber Diet May Help Cut Inflammation Caused by Gout
Do you know of any other vegetables that can help reduce inflammation? Let us know in the comments below!