Inflammation is a natural and necessary part of our body’s immune response. Without this vital response, our bodies can’t heal and protect us from infection. However, when inflammation escalates and lingers beyond what is necessary, it can wreak havoc on the body. Nearly every ailment or disease the body experiences is a result of an overactive inflammatory response. Arthritis, obesity, heart disease, cancer, and an array of autoimmune diseases are all linked to inflammation. Everything from stress, to environment, and the foods we eat can contribute to an unhealthy inflammatory response. There’s only so much we can do when it comes to alleviating stress, and our environment can be an even harder element to control, depending on where we live. So where can we have the most impact in to fight inflammation? With what we consume!

Superfoods That Can Help Support Your Body & Reduce Inflammation

Turmeric

Turmeric continues to showcase increased anti-inflammatory benefits. The use of this spice dates back to ancient times with documented health benefits in both Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. Curcumin is the active anti-inflammatory constituent housed within turmeric. When combined with other herbs also known to fight inflammation you can greatly enhance the bioavailability and benefits of turmeric. This is what we’ve done with our Turmeric and Super Herbs blend. Some of the top herbs have been added to this superfood supplement including, ginger, willow bark, Boswellia, devil’s claw and alpha-lipoic acid. If you love the taste of turmeric as much as we do, we highly recommend adding the Golden Milk Super Blend to your health routine.

Beet Powder

The rich red color and tangy, yet earthy flavor of beets is almost a testament to their natural antioxidant power. Not everyone loves the taste of beets, we know, but they’re so worth adding to your diet. Their benefits have proven worthy with several studies to their accolade including a recent one performed in 2014 showcasing a significant reduction in oxidative stress and inflammation(1). If the taste of beets is a bit strong for you, slowly introducing Beet Powder into your world can help. Try adding a small amount to a berry-forward smoothie with strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries - this can help to mask the flavor. You could also add the powder to a veggie capsule. But if you find them as delish as we do, give our Just Beet It Smoothie recipe a try!

Camu Camu

Vitamin C is abundant in this superfood. In fact, it’s one of the planets most rich Vitamin C foods - 60 times more than an orange and 56 times more than a lemon(2). Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and helps battle inflammation. A recent study among smokers showcased a significant reduction in oxidative stress and other inflammatory markers among male-smokers who consumed camu camu over just a 7-day period(3). The powder form is tangy and tasty. It can be mixed into water or juice, or added to a smoothie or bowl.

White Mulberry

This delicious treat contains exception anti-inflammatory benefits. Several bioactive compounds, including oxyresveratrol, have been shown to control and inhibit inflammatory responses in the body(4). Other findings have demonstrated that white mulberry may exert not only anti-inflammatory but anti-cancer activity(5). White Mulberries make a great snack on their own but can also be added to trail-mixes, oatmeal or a granola bowl.

Matcha Green Tea

The natural, earthy green color and grounding flavor-profile in matcha green tea is near proof of its health-promoting benefits. Matcha green tea powder is extraordinarily high in, antioxidants, as well as EGCG catechin (i.e. epigallocatechin gallate) and polyphenols. Matcha powder is versatile as an ingredient. It can be enjoyed hot or in a cold latte-style beverage. It can also be added to a variety of recipes including healthy baked goods and savory sauces.

Coconut Oil

We saved this one for last because not only does coconut oil offer anti-inflammatory benefits on the inside but the outside, as well. Our skin is our largest organ and coconut oil can help to soothe and support the healing process of dermal inflammation -- from a sunburn to a mild rash, minor cuts and scrapes, and even ear infections(6). And yes, coconut oil can soothe inflammation on the inside of the body, too. In Ayurvedic medicine, coconut oil is known for its cooling properties and is promoted for use during hot summer weather. Coconut oil contains several medium-chain-fatty-acids (MCFAs) that are noted to combat inflammation including lauric acid, and caprylic acid -- both of which can help strengthen our immune system, ward off potential infection, and even help reduce joint and muscle pain(7). Coconut oil is a prized ingredient here at Sunfood and we offer a variety of products; from the raw, extra-virgin oil itself to our variety of Coconut Wraps, which are organic, raw, vegan, and paleo friendly!

Shop The Story

(1) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25400335 (2) https://draxe.com/camu-camu/ (3) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18922386 (4) https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2225411018300117 (5) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4074313/ (6) https://www.naturalmedicinejournal.com/journal/2014-05/treatment-dermal-infections-topical-coconut-oil (7) https://www.painpathways.org/can-coconut-oil-reduce-pain/

Sunfood's "Natural Solutions" does not promote or suggest natural cures, natural healing or natural remedies for any disease, disorder or ailment thereof. This information should be treated as educational material gathered and discovered from various studies, clinical trials and customer reviews. It is designed to encourage healthy lifestyles, and independent conclusions in regards to natural products and alternative health choices. It is best to consult with your healthcare practitioner before attempting any form of natural cure, natural healing or natural remedy to any health issues.