Are you affected by inflammatory diseases? They can take the form of internal ailments such as, cancer, arteriosclerosis, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, type 2 diabetes, endometriosis, and some pretty noticeable skin disorders. Yikes!
Modern medicine has some pretty effective prescription remedies for all these conditions, but did you know that many wholesome foods have bioactive compounds that are ready to serve their purpose in your body and naturally fight inflammation? Check out these simple, accessible foods that can help you and then, try my favorite snack recipe listed at the end for a super tasty treat loaded with antioxidants.
Green Tea
Studies show that green tea is beneficial in fighting a variety of diseases such as cancer, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and more. Experimentation shows that green tea and its bioactive compound, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects through suppression of the gene and/or protein expression of inflammatory cytokines and inflammation-related enzymes. Read more here.
To reap the most benefits of green tea, drink three to five brewed cups per day. If you are sensitive to caffeine, you may want to adjust that according to your level of tolerance.
Turmeric and Ginger
Both Turmeric and Ginger have been used in traditional medicine for centuries for a wide variety of reasons, but top on the list is for anti-inflammatory action.
“Turmeric, an approved food additive, or its component curcumin, has shown surprisingly beneficial effects in experimental studies of acute and chronic diseases characterized by an exaggerated inflammatory reaction. There is ample evidence to support its clinical use, both as a prevention and a treatment.” Source: Curcumin, An Atoxic Antioxidant and Natural NFkappaB, Cyclooxygenase-2, Lipooxygenase, and Inducible Nitric Oxide Ynthase Inhibitor: A Shield Against Acute and Chronic Diseases, Bengmark, Stig MD, PhD, FRACS (hon), FRCPS (hon)Jan-Feb 2006
In regard to ginger, a 1970’s scientific discovery confirmed discovery repeatedly confirmed that ginger shares pharmacological properties with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and can be used as an herbal medicinal product. Source:
Ginger--An Herbal Medicinal Product with Broad Anti-Inflammatory Actions,
Magnolia Extract and Oil
We cannot stop singing the praises of the tremendous benefits of our signature ingredient, Magnolol which comes from the bark extract and flower oil of the Magnolia officionalis. For the in-depth rundown, read our recent blog post https://magnoliaskinessentials.com/blogs/news/want-to-age-gracefully-you-need-these-3-treasured-skin-benefits-of-magnolia
In addition to using topically on your skin, you can also drink the extract as a tea, and can find it in many health food and specialty stores.
Three more foods rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds that fight anti-inflammatory conditions are:
- Leafy greens
- Cauliflower and Broccoli
- Legumes
And now, my favorite snack that is packed with antioxidants that I predict you will love!
Crispy Air-Fryer Kale Chips
2-3 cups loose kale leaves, washed and trimmed
1.5 teaspoons olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon turmeric
¼ teaspoon ginger
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Sea salt to taste
The key to crisp kale chips is a) light oil, and b) dry air. Sprinkle the olive oil over the kale leaves and massage until the oil is distributed evenly and each leaf is lightly coated. Next, combine all spices, evenly sprinkle over kale, and continue to gently massage until evenly distributed.
Place all the kale into the air-fryer basket, loosely arranged. Set the timer for 5 minutes initial cook time, then check and continue frying to your desired crispness (Mine usually cook for about 6-7 minutes depending on the size of the leaves).
Walla! You have a tasty, crunchy, satisfying snack that gives your health an amazing boost. Bon appetite!
