In the realm of health and wellness, the term “inflammation” has more often been linked with disease, thereby associating it with only ill effects in the body. Well, inflammation is actually part of the natural immune response to infection, injury or any sickness. For instance, when the skin tissue gets bruised, the swelling and redness in the region is a component of the healthy inflammatory reaction, which eventually subsides and in fact, aids in wound healing. Such situations of a brief period of inflammation that is regulated by the system are very normal and do not present any cause for concern.
Shop From Our Wide Range Of Top-Selling Supplements, To Beat Inflammation And Stay Healthy!
However, when this reaction occurs in a more severe form, known as chronic inflammation, it tends to hamper normal functioning of the bodily organs, like in debilitating illnesses of arthritis, diabetes, cancer. Besides these underlying health anomalies, systemic inflammation also arises from unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as a poor or junk diet, undue mental stress, insufficient sleep at night and direct contact with toxic chemicals. While adopting good health practices of consuming a nutritious diet, getting adequate sleep, keeping stress levels in check with exercises like yoga and herbs like adaptogens certainly help, taking some proven anti-inflammatory supplements also aids in pacifying pain, discomfort and augments wellbeing. Here are some brilliant supplements to effectively lower inflammation, but it is always recommended to consult with a doctor prior to taking them, to ensure the right dosage and avert any possible side effects.
Also Read: Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Benefits, Foods To Eat And Avoid
Powerful Supplements To Ease Inflammation And Enhance Overall Health:
1. Curcumin
Curcumin is a potent phytonutrient that is the active compound found in turmeric - a widely used root for culinary purposes and topical application on the skin. Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated the ability of curcumin to significantly decrease insulin resistance in diabetes, accelerate wound healing to mend peeling, dryness, injuries on the skin and lower the chances of developing cancer.
2. Boswellia
Blessed with strong anti-inflammatory and analgesic i.e. pain-relieving qualities, Boswellia serrata, also called Indian frankincense, is a herb that aids in managing chronic conditions of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis. It remarkably improves flexibility and mobility of joints in the body, enabling better movement in arthritis to perform normal day-to-day activities at home and work.
Also Read: Top 5 Incredible Therapeutic Uses of Indian Frankincense
3. Fish Oil
Fish Oil encompasses vast reserves of healthy fats known as omega-3 fatty acids, which are of two major types – EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid). These constituents confer excellent wellness incentives for heart health, by reducing the levels of triglycerides, bad cholesterol i.e. LDL and elevating the volumes of good cholesterol or HDL in blood circulation, thereby preventing maladies like cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis and hypertension.
4. Spirulina
These blue-green microalgae that thrive in the oceans and lakes are a rich source of phytonutrients with anti-inflammatory traits. Spirulina contains a specific compound called phycocyanin that is a potent antioxidant that flushes out detrimental free radicals and prevents the oxidation of healthy cells in the body. In addition to these cytoprotective effects, spirulina also supplies profuse amounts of iron to resolve anaemia and fatigue.
5. Ginger
Touted as a panacea that cures a host of health woes since ancient times, ginger, the aromatic root is today made in the form of supplements, besides its extensive use in cooking curries and making teas. Laden with the bioactive element gingerol which displays tremendous anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics, ginger works wonders in remedying respiratory ailments like asthma, kidney problems and diabetes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does turmeric help with inflammation?
Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that can reduce pain and swelling when included in your diet or taken as a supplement.
What lifestyle changes help manage inflammation?
Regular physical activity, stress reduction, and sufficient sleep are essential lifestyle factors in keeping inflammation levels under control.
What role does diet play in managing inflammation?
A diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats helps lower inflammation, while processed foods may increase it.
Is hydration important for reducing inflammation?
Yes, staying hydrated helps flush out toxins and can reduce inflammatory markers, supporting your body’s natural detox process.
Does reducing sugar intake help with inflammation?
Yes, limiting sugar can significantly reduce inflammation, as excess sugar consumption is linked to higher levels of inflammatory markers.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile
Soumita Basu:
Soumita Basu holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy and is keenly interested in Ayurveda, home remedies, yoga, fitness, diagnostics, and beauty. With nearly 6 years of experience, she produces evidence-based health content, including articles, videos, and infographics, to provide valuable insights to her audience.
References:
1. Anti-Inflammatory DietsAuthors: Alexander Scheiber; Victoria Mank.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK597377/
2. The effect of an anti-inflammatory diet on chronic pain: a pilot studyAuthors: Marta Sala-ClimentMarta Sala-Climent1Teresa Lpez de Coca,Teresa López de Coca1,2María Dolores GuerreroMaría Dolores Guerrero2Francisco Javier Muoz,Francisco Javier Muñoz1,3María Amparo Lpez-RuízMaría Amparo López-Ruíz2Lucrecia Moreno,Lucrecia Moreno1,2Mnica Alacreu,Mónica Alacreu1,3María Auxiliadora Dea-Ayuela, María Auxiliadora Dea-Ayuela2*
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1205526/full