Three Compounds That Can Bring Down Inflammation

Inflammation is a necessary physiological response when our bodies become injured or sick, but it can become an issue if left unchecked.

There are natural ways to reduce inflammation. One such strategy is incorporating foods that are high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients into our meals.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a perennial plant whose underground stem is harvested for use in culinary spices and traditional medicine. It primarily grows in India and other Southeast Asian countries, where it’s popularly used to flavor curry powder. When dried, turmeric gives Indian curry its distinctive yellow hue as well as adds spice to mustard and other condiments.

Traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine has been around for at least 4,000 years and is also used in Chinese and Eastern Asian medical systems. It has long been used to treat digestive and liver issues, skin diseases, and wounds.

Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Curcumin, one of the primary bioactive compounds found in turmeric, is an effective antioxidant that fights inflammation. It scavenges free radicals which damage cell membranes and interfere with DNA, leading to chronic inflammation and oxidative stress.

Curcumin also inhibits two enzymes responsible for inflammation, while keeping platelets from clumping together to form blood clots. These effects could potentially reduce inflammation associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

However, it’s essential to be aware that these benefits come with risks, particularly in high doses and over time. For instance, it may cause bloating in certain individuals and interact with blood-clotting medications. Furthermore, certain individuals are predisposed to kidney stones from taking this drug.

Due to these potential risks, it’s best to consume only a small amount of turmeric and not overdose. A teaspoon or two per day should usually suffice for maximum benefits.

Before taking this supplement as a standalone medication, it’s essential to consult your doctor first. They can ensure you do not experience any negative side effects from taking this drug. Furthermore, those with gallstones or bile duct issues should steer clear of taking this medication.

Turmeric’s health benefits can largely be attributed to curcumin, but other nutrients in it such as omega-3 fatty acids and ginger may also aid in decreasing inflammation in the body.

Curcumin – Is A Compound In Tumeric

Curcumin is an effective anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, helping protect the body from free radicals which can damage cell membranes, alter DNA, or even lead to cell death.

Furthermore, research has indicated that grape seed extract can help lower levels of inflammatory enzymes and prevent platelets from clumping together to form blood clots, potentially decreasing the risk of heart disease and cancer.

It has also been believed to reduce inflammation in the brain and help protect against memory loss due to Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease by stimulating the hippocampus region of the brain – where new memories form – with its stimulating properties.

Turmeric, also known as curcumin, is a natural source of curcumin which may also be found in turmeric extracts or supplements. Studies have also looked into the effects of curcumin on various health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

Inflammation is the body’s response to injury and an inevitable part of living, but when left unchecked it can have serious consequences. Chronic inflammation has been linked to many diseases, making it critical to control this inflammation in order to lower the risks of heart disease and cancer.

Studies have demonstrated that curcumin can help reduce inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, proteins found in the body which have been linked to various autoimmune conditions like lupus, fibromyalgia and psoriasis.

Another study has demonstrated that taking an 80 mg dose of curcumin per day significantly decreased triglyceride and cholesterol levels in healthy adults. This research used lipidated curcumin, which is more readily absorbed by the body than its water-soluble counterpart.

Curcumin appears to exert its effects mainly at the molecular level, as it inhibits various inflammatory pathways and modulates key transcription factors, enzymes, receptors, and cellular growth factors. Its anti-inflammatory actions are likely due to its inhibition of the NF-kB pathway which regulates gene expression and proliferation.

In a study of 117 subjects with metabolic syndrome who received curcumin combined with piperine to increase absorption, researchers observed that supplementing their meals decreased serum concentrations of TNF-a, IL-6, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-b), and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1). These effects were sustained even after controlling for baseline lipid levels and glucose.

Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Omega 3 Fatty Acids Especially DHA

Omega 3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), can reduce inflammation in the body. They help regulate immunity and lower cardiovascular disease risk factors, lupus, and arthritis as well.

EPA and DHA are long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids commonly found in foods and dietary supplements. While they can be made from ALA, they’re most often found in fish oil as well as some nuts and seeds.

DHA is an essential fatty acid, meaning your body cannot synthesize it on its own; thus, you must obtain it through food or supplements. Eating plenty of fish and other seafood will be the simplest way to do this.

Furthermore, vegetable oils like olive oil, sunflower oil, and sesame seed oil provide EPA and DHA in high amounts. This is the most convenient way to get a sufficient supply of omega-3 fatty acids as these foods contain ALA (the precursor for both EPA and DHA).

Studies have demonstrated that supplementing with high amounts of EPA and DHA can reduce inflammation. A recent study from Tufts University demonstrated this phenomenon; participants who received an extra dose of DHA twice daily experienced lower levels of pro-inflammatory proteins.

This research is encouraging, as it suggests that omega-3 fatty acids could be an effective weapon in fighting inflammation. However, it’s essential to note that the precise mechanisms behind this anti-inflammatory effect are still being explored, particularly among diabetic and cardiovascular disease patients.

These effects are thought to be caused by bioactive lipid mediators produced by fatty acid oxygenases like cyclooxygenases (COXs) and lipoxygenases (LOXs). COX- and LOX-derived eicosanoids like prostaglandins (PGs), leukotrienes (LTs) and lipoxins (LXs) have an important role in modulating inflammation at multiple levels, impacting many inflammatory cytokines, acute-phase proteins, adhesion molecules and other inflammation biomarkers found in patients with diabetes or CVD.

The human body produces essential pro- and anti-inflammatory lipid mediators to regulate inflammation. These molecules cause enzymes such as nitric oxide and malondialdehyde to increase blood flow to affected areas, decreasing swelling and inflammation. Furthermore, these molecules protect cells from free radical damage by producing antioxidants like glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase.

Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Ginger

Ginger, one of the world’s most widely used medicinal spices, contains anti-inflammatory properties which can help manage arthritis symptoms. Not only that but it also has been known to reduce other health conditions and strengthen your immune system.

It can be found in a range of forms, including fresh, dried, candied, ground, pickled, and preserved. It may also be added to food as a spice or added to beverages such as syrup or juice.

Gingerol, a bioactive compound found in raw ginger, helps promote healthy digestion by increasing movement within the digestive tract and stimulating healthy enzymes. Furthermore, its antimicrobial and antifungal properties further boost immunity levels.

Another advantage of including ginger in your diet is its ability to soothe stomach pain and indigestion. Studies have demonstrated that people who consume raw ginger or take a capsule of ginger extract experience lower levels of abdominal discomfort and bloating than those who don’t.

Ginger can also help combat the pro-inflammatory effects of certain foods, such as sugar, refined carbs, and gluten. Refined carbohydrates tend to increase inflammation due to their often lack of fiber content – leaving your gut bacteria more sensitive to potential triggers of inflammation.

Consuming high-sugar foods can also lead to inflammation and heart problems. To ensure that your blood sugar level stays within healthy limits, reduce processed carbs and opt for whole foods instead.

Before using any herbal medicine or supplement, it’s essential to consult your doctor first and use a safe dosage. Taking too much of any herbal remedy may have adverse reactions or interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications you are already taking.

For example, taking too much ginger can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Pregnant women or those who have a history of pregnancy-induced vomiting should consult their doctors before taking any type of herbal supplement.

In addition to its many benefits, ginger has been scientifically proven to improve memory and cognitive function. The antioxidants present in ginger protect the brain from free radical damage while safeguarding nerve cells that control mood, memory, and focus – potentially helping prevent Alzheimer’s disease or mental illness caused by chronic inflammation.