In This ArticleView AllIn This Article1. Extra-Virgin Olive Oil2. Turmeric3. Canned Tuna4. Kidney Beans5. Almonds6. Canned Tomatoes7. Garlic8. Green Tea

In This ArticleView All

View All

In This Article

  1. Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

  2. Turmeric

  3. Canned Tuna

  4. Kidney Beans

  5. Almonds

  6. Canned Tomatoes

  7. Garlic

  8. Green Tea

Close

Photo:Photographer: Grant Webster, Food Stylist: Addelyn Evans, Prop Stylist: Gabriel Greco,

a recipe photo of the Cucumber–Tuna Salad Sandwich

Photographer: Grant Webster, Food Stylist: Addelyn Evans, Prop Stylist: Gabriel Greco,

Ever heard the saying “You are what you eat”? Well, turns out, it’s not just a catchy phrase. The foods we consume play a significant role in our overall health—including reducing inflammation. A natural immune response that occurs after an injury or infection,inflammation isn’t bad per se. But when it becomes prolonged or excessive, it can contribute to a variety of health issues including heart disease, diabetes and autoimmune disorders like Crohn’s disease.

Curcumin, the active ingredient inturmeric, is a potent antioxidant compound that’s been shown to reduce various markers related to inflammation. It’s important to note that consuming turmeric with black pepper, which contains piperine, has been shown to enhance curcumin absorption, so consider pairing the two ingredients together to reap maximum benefits. Try sipping on aturmeric latteor tosscauliflowerwith some turmeric before roasting.

Beyond their versatility,kidney beansare packed with anti-inflammatory compounds. They are rich indietary fiber, which can promote a healthy gut microbiome and, in turn, lower systemic inflammation. Beans also contain a variety of antioxidants, including flavonoids and polyphenol, which can reduce oxidative stress. Kidney beans are often used inchilisand stews, but they can also be tossed into a salad or used to make a bean dip.

These tasty nuts aren’t just a snack; they’re also champions in the fight against inflammation.Almondshave several properties that contribute to their anti-inflammatory effects. They are rich in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which can help moderate the activity of immune cells and regulate inflammation. Almonds also contain antioxidants, including vitamin E and polyphenols, which can help neutralize free radicals. Snack on a handful ofspiced almondsor sprinkle a few on your salad and yogurt.

The star of soups, sauces, chili and more is an underrated source of anti-inflammatory goodness.Tomatoesare rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant and carotenoid that may help reduce oxidative stress, which is a key contributor to inflammation. Canned tomatoes also contain vitamin C, which supports the body’s natural defense against oxidative stress. Canned tomatoes can be used to whip up pasta sauce,curriesandmore.

Garlicis responsible for adding flavor to delicious recipes like20-Minute Chicken Cutlets with Garlic Tomato Sauce, but it’s also responsible for reducing inflammation. This little bulb contains allicin, which is a sulfur-containing compound found in fresh garlic when it is crushed or chopped. Allicin has been shown to inhibit the activity of inflammatory enzymes and reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Grate garlic into avinaigretteto drizzle over salads, or makegarlicky shrimp and broccolifor dinner tonight.

15 Easy Garlicky Veggie Sides You’ll Want to Make Forever

Alright, let’s spill the tea aboutgreen tea! It’s rich in polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which helps moderate signaling pathways involved in inflammation and prevent the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. To reap the benefits of these anti-inflammatory properties, try starting your day with a warm cup of green tea instead of coffee, or add green tea to asmoothie.

The 6 Best Anti-Inflammatory Teas

Maintaining an anti-inflammatory pantry is a proactive step toward nurturing a foundation for sustained health, vitality and wellness. These top eight anti-inflammatory pantry staples are a great start and can lead to significant improvements in your health in the long run.

Was this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!Tell us why!OtherSubmit

Was this page helpful?

Thanks for your feedback!

Tell us why!OtherSubmit

Tell us why!