Anti-inflammatory food?

What happens when you sustain an injury?  Well in the case of soft tissue (muscle, joint, tendon or ligament) injuries the body undergoes a few stages in order to heal and recover.  One of those stages is the inflammatory process.  This is the stage (usually the first few days after an injury) where you get all the pain, swelling and heat around an injured area.  It is a necessary but painful part of the body's healing process.

Although we dont want to stop the inflammatory process we do want to manage it (and the pain ans swelling that comes with it) and prevent it from getting worse.  Certain factors can increase inflammation such as increased activity or weight through an injured area, alcohol or certain foods.

On the other side many of you would be familiar with the acronym (R.I.C.E).  Referring to rest, ice, compression  and elevation.  There are also certain foods that can help.  An increase in omega 3 foods and reduction in omega 6 foods can assist in managing levels of inflammation.

Omega 3 rich foods (that can help reduce infllammation) include:

• fish oil
• olive oil
• flack seeds
• avocado
• unsalted mixed nuts

Also some common herbs that have anti-inflammatory properties include:

• tumeric
• garlic

Of course everything should be taken in moderation as part of a balanced diet and if you are at all unsure speak to your dietician or nutritionist.