Chronic infections cause serious diseases such as cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer's. There is what is known as the anti-inflammatory diet, and various studies have shown that it can reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. So what is this diet?
Science has come to know more clearly how dangerous infections can be to the body , and infections are linked to some deadly diseases such as some types of cancer and Alzheimer's disease. Chronic infections are often treated with steroids or anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or nutritional supplements.
However, recent research has shown that the "anti-inflammatory diet" is one of the best therapeutic and preventive methods, according to the German "Business Insider" website.
The severity of chronic infections
“Inflammation is not always a bad thing, our body uses inflammation as a signal of recovery,” says Dr. Mary Riker of the University of Arizona. This can be seen, for example, when redness and swelling occur in an infected wound. However, if the inflammation is chronic, it can lead to serious diseases such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes and asthma.
This is the time when an anti-inflammatory diet is important as this diet is supposed to reduce chronic inflammation in the body.
What is an anti-inflammatory diet?
It's not just a diet for a certain period of time but more of a guided lifestyle, says Dr. Mary Riker of the University of Arizona. An anti-inflammatory diet focuses on whole, unprocessed foods and allows for a variety of nutrient-dense foods such as salmon, berries and nuts.
Recommended foods to eat
Fatty fish: Like salmon, sardines, and mackerel, the omega-3 fatty acids in these foods have anti-inflammatory properties and are necessary to balance omega-6s, which can cause inflammation.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Extra-virgin olive oil contains a special compound called oleocanthal that has anti-inflammatory effects similar to ibuprofen. As well as Brussels sprouts, broccoli, sweet peppers, and fruits such as kiwis and oranges.
Nuts: Researchers have found that nutrients found in nuts, such as omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and magnesium, can help reduce inflammation , according to Business Insider.
Berries: especially blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, red berries and strawberries. A study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that berries contain compounds that protect against inflammation and heart disease and help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
Tomatoes: Researchers have repeatedly found that the lycopene in tomatoes is an effective anti-inflammatory agent that can help prevent cardiovascular disease. Despite this, science is still trying to understand exactly how lycopene helps reduce inflammation.
Foods that are recommended to be avoided
There are foods that can promote inflammation in the body and should be avoided, including: processed carbohydrates, fatty red meat, fried foods, sugary drinks and alcohol.
An anti-inflammatory diet is healthy and safe for most people, says Mary Riker, adding that it's relatively easy to stick to and should be maintained for life for best results.
The researcher offers this advice: “To successfully reduce inflammation, you need to change your lifestyle, and follow a long-term diet, and not just for three to six months,” according to the “Business Insider” website.
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