Your health has its own traffic signals to follow, which creates a strategy for either disease or healing. Inflammation is one of those signals, often triggered by your immune response to protect you when you’re ill or experience an injury. However, when certain lifestyle behaviors - such as toxic overload, genetics, poor nutrition, or limited physical activity - the frequency of inflammation activation can become a persistent irritant and disruptor.
Digestion and nutrient balance are key indicators I review with all clients. Keeping a food diary and writing down symptoms can help confirm which foods contribute to inflammation. Common signs of chronic inflammation are persistent fatigue, joint pain, digestive issues, skin problems, and frequent infections. Did you know that weight gain can be linked to increased inflammation?
Lifestyle changes can help reduce inflammation as a health burden. Diet plays a crucial role in lowering inflammation levels and can also aid in shedding
excess weight or water retention. An anti-inflammatory diet should include healthy gut fiber, a variety of fruits and vegetables, and wild or organic foods. Learning which foods to incorporate and which to limit in your diet is essential. Recipe reviews and menu planning are valuable tools we use together to help you confidently dine out and meal plan while managing inflammation
Health is about finding a diet philosophy that supports your lifestyle. The first step in reducing inflammation is identifying sources of ultra-processed foods that contain artificial flavorings, sweeteners, colors, excess added sugar, saturated fat, and salt. The next step is to establish patterns that keep you fueled and healthy. Working with a registered dietitian can set the course for learning how to eat in a way that works best for your body. We work together to help you feel empowered and less stressed about eating for your health. Some of my top anti-inflammatory favorites at Refuel are the Wellness Elixer and Green Machine smoothies. Don’t forget to visit The Kitchen for great anti-inflammatory options like the Poke, Salmon, or Legume Bowls.
By: Elayna Nunley, Houstonian Club Registered Dietitian, MS, LD, CES