You may have heard or read about certain foods having an inflammatory or anti-inflammatory effect. In today’s blog article, we’re going to talk about what an anti-inflammatory diet is and why it’s important.

What is an anti-inflammatory diet?

An anti-inflammatory diet is not a specific strict diet. It is more like a style of eating. Foods that have been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect include most plant-based foods, like fruits and vegetables, lean meats, and foods that are high in omega fatty acids such as nuts or oily fish like salmon or mackerel. Some foods like olive oil are good because they contain different types of antioxidants that are known to fight inflammation.

Why is an anti-inflammatory diet relevant for seniors?

There are several specific health conditions that we know include inflammation such as rheumatoid arthritis and asthma. However, a generalized inflammation of the body seems to be part of the aging process for most adults although the reasons for this are not clear. So, it makes sense for seniors to do what they can to minimize their body’s inflammation. It’s entirely possible that some simple dietary changes can make seniors feel better and have fewer aches and pains.

The point here is that it makes sense to prevent or lower overall inflammation—if possible--before it happens rather than treat inflammation with drugs after the fact. And there seems to be some good evidence that eating a good diet can help with this.

Some very simple changes like reaching for a piece of fruit or some nuts instead of something like a donut can make a big difference over time. Fried foods like French fries and heavily processed sugary foods are some of the worst offenders.

Seniors often find that their sense of taste deteriorates as they age, and people often have less appetite as they grow older. So, when you do eat, make every bite count. Try to steer toward plant-based foods and foods that are less processed. You may be amazed at how a small change in diet will make you feel better and lower inflammation in the body.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6457053/

https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/foods-that-fight-inflammation

Cedarwood Station is an independent-living, senior community in Airdrie, Alberta, just north of Calgary. Guided by the tenets of Christian faith, and with a stellar staff and multiple amenities, Cedarwood Station, is the premier senior-living choice for the area.