So, what's the big deal about eating inflammatory foods?

So, what's the big deal about eating anti-inflammatory foods? Well, apparently chronic inflammation has been linked to cancer, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, depression, and Alzheimer's. Yuk! 

But, I love hamburgers on a bun with a few potato chips! Am I doomed to never enjoy a burger again? I think not. However, I do believe moderation is key.

So, will a burger kill me? Maybe eventually, but I believe it you surround yourself with plenty of anti-inflammatory foods (see list below), a burger now and then won't hurt.

Well, while I switched to an anti-inflammatory diet and not much happened. That's when I learned about lectins which voids the following list in many cases. So, the bottom line is if you feel well, don't have much belly, and no digestive issues ... go for it! But, if you're still struggling you might want to look at lectins.

What do you think?

Here's a list of anti-inflammatory foods to eat in abundance!

• Leafy greens ... you know like arugula, spinach, kale
• Berries - all kinds!
• Cherries
• Grapes
• Apples
• Pears
• Tomatoes (I pop a couple cherry tomatoes throughout the day)
• Peppers
• Zucchini
• Beets
• Onions
• Shallots
• Spring Onions
• Beans - all kinds (if you buy dried and cook your own, even better)
• Lentils
• Chickpeas
• Quinoa
• Rice - experiment with wild rice, brown rice, etc.
• Oats
• Nuts and Seeds - all kinds!
• Avocados
• Coconut - no sugar, please)
• Olives - woohoo ... black, green, Greek ... experiment!
• Dark Chocolate - an acquired taste for some but I love 97% cacao
• Fish - look for those high in Omega-3 like salmon, swordfish, Mackeral, etc.
• Seafood
• Poultry
• Pork
• Herbs and spices - turmeric, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne

Sounds pretty easy, right? OK, so here is your no-no list ... if you must, seriously limit ...

• Processed meat
• Red meat
• Sugar
• Trans Fats
• Bread
• Pasta
• Vegetable Oil
• Processed Snacks and Desserts
• Carbs
• Alcohol