We are in the middle of the holiday season, and it’s easy to over-indulge on all of those inflammatory foods right now (think processed food and holiday-themed cocktails). However, you can still maintain balance with your diet, as there is an abundance of anti-inflammatory foods that are in peak season this winter.
Here are the seven best anti-inflammatory foods to eat right now, courtesy of our friends over at Eating Well.
Pomegranate
The seeds within a pomegranate (known as arils), along with its juice, are packed with flavor and antioxidants, which work to quell inflammation caused by free radical damage. Toss pomegranates in a salad, blend in a smoothie, or simply add to hot tea.
Broccoli
Though you can find it year-round in the grocery store, broccoli is actually a winter vegetable, mainly due to its ability to thrive in cold weather. According to Eating Well, this cruciferous veggie contains bioactive sulfur compounds called glucosinolates, which work to minimize disease risk by decreasing inflammation. Looking to incorporate broccoli into your diet plan? Try our Roasted Broccolini with Sauteed Artichokes.
Blood Oranges
This citrus fruit makes a fantastic addition to your cold-weather diet, as it’s packed with the immune-boosting antioxidant vitamin C. Blood oranges are delicious on their own, but they can also make a healthy dessert or can be incorporated into a salad.
Leeks
Leeks are in the allium family, along with onions, shallots, and scallions. These root vegetables contain an anti-inflammatory compound called quercetin, which is believed to lessen the inflammatory effects of harmful chemicals and compounds in the body.
Sweet Potatoes
This starchy vegetable is an anti-inflammatory powerhouse, due to it being a low-glycemic source of vitamin C. Sweet potatoes also contain carotenoids, which protect cells from free radical damage that can cause inflammation. Roast them, bake them, or make them into our Sweet Potato Fries!
Beets
Fresh beets are a staple in our kitchen, due to their earthy flavor and meaty texture. Plus, they are an excellent source of folate, as well as dietary fiber, potassium, and vitamin C – making them an obvious choice to incorporate into our recipes! But what makes them really stand out is its two other compounds – betaine and nitrates – which are believed to have anti-inflammatory effects, such as lowering blood pressure. Try our Roasted Beet Salad.
Pears
Improving gut health is a great way to reduce inflammation, and research suggests that one can improve gut health by eating more prebiotics through high-fiber produce. Pears are one of the highest-fiber fruits, making them a top anti-inflammatory contender. Try pears in a flatbread or make them as a sweet dessert!
