7 Foods That Reduce Inflammation Naturally

Do you or someone you love suffer from inflammation and the pain that comes with it? If so, I'm happy to share with you a little of what I have learned through my journey to heal my inflammation. I will share with you 7 foods that reduce inflammation naturally.

In my early 20's, I dealt with daily pain from inflammation in several areas of my body. So I know how painful and debilitating inflammation can be. When I could take the pain any longer, I decided to take matters into my own hands, and find out how to get rid of my inflammation for good and in a natural way. Before I share some of the secrets I have found, it is important to know what inflammation is. So, what is inflammation?

Inflammation is part of the biological response of vascular tissues to harmful stimuli. These stimuli could be damaged cells, pathogens, or irritants. Inflammation is a protective attempt by your body to remove the detrimental stimuli and to start the healing process. Infections and wounds would never heal without inflammation. Symptoms of inflammation can include swelling, pain, redness, and restriction in movement.

Inflammation can be acute or chronic. Chronic inflammation is prolonged inflammation. It leads to a progressive shift in the type of cells existing at the site of inflammation and is characterized by concurring destruction and healing of the tissue from the inflammatory process. It can cause a load of diseases, such as arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, periodontitis, hay fever, cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases, hypersensitivities, diabetes, stroke, heart disease, acne, celiac disease, autoimmune diseases, asthma, etc. So for that reason, the body closely regulates inflammation.

It is important to reduce inflammation not just because of the pain that it causes you, but also because chronic inflammation is very detrimental to the body. Unlike acute inflammation, where the immune system responds to injury or infection by activating inflammatory chemicals that fight abnormal substances, chronic inflammation isn't beneficial for the body.

The foods you choose to eat can help reduce and prevent inflammation. Foods reduce inflammation naturally, so if you want to get rid of your inflammation naturally, then read on! Below I will share with you 7 foods that reduce inflammation naturally. These foods are called anti-inflammatory foods.

Berries
Goji berries are one of the first foods I choose to eat to rid myself of my horrible inflammation pain, and I noticed a difference within weeks. Goji berries are very high in antioxidants, so they are a great anti-inflammatory along with other wonderful qualities. Blueberries are full of antioxidants and high in phytonutrients. Phytonutrients give anti-inflammatory protection against many diseases. Other types of berries such as raspberries, blackberries, strawberries and cranberries are also high in antioxidants.

Papaya
Papain is a protein-digesting enzyme found in papaya. Papain, along with other nutrients such as vitamin E and C, helps to reduce inflammation and improves digestion. If you are interested in foods that reduce inflammation, and you are a tropical fruit fan, then this is a perfect food for you to eat.

Pineapple
Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids in the healing of indigestion, sports injury, trauma and other kinds of swelling and inflammation. Extracts of bromelain are used in various natural anti-inflammatory supplements for arthritis.

Spices
Turmeric is a spice with high anti-inflammatory qualities. Add a teaspoon to your diet each day. Some ways to include turmeric into your diet would be to add it to soups, sprinkling it on scrambled eggs, mixing it into sauces, or salad dressings. Ginger is a relative of turmeric that is also revered internationally for its anti-inflammatory qualities. If you want to reduce inflammation naturally, then try incorporating these spices in your next meals.

Kelp
Kelp contains fucoidan, a kind of carbohydrate that is anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidative. Kombu, arame, and wakame are a few types of kelp that can be bought at the grocery store. Kelp has a high fiber content so it also helps to make your feel full and promotes weight loss. Get organic kelp from unpolluted waters.

Spinach
Spinach is a dark green leafy vegetable that is a high source of anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative flavonoids and carotenoids. It contains vitamin A, B, B, C, E, K, iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and folate. Make sure to buy organic spinach. Non-organic spinach is sprayed with pesticides and you don't want to be putting more toxins into your body, because that will increase your inflammation. Vegetables, especially dark leafy vegetables are great for decreases inflammation. Choose dark green or brightly colored vegetables.

Broccoli
Broccoli contains anti-inflammatory phytonutrients that help the body to get rid of carcinogenic compounds. It is also a highly nutritious vegetable. Cauliflower is a relative of broccoli, which contains similar components that aid the body's detoxification.

I hope you have found this list of foods that reduce inflammation helpful. Start eating some of these foods, and see what happens. If you already eat some of them, try eating more. The more you eat of these foods, the more you should see a reduction in your inflammation and the pain that goes with it. Here's to a new you... inflammation and pain-free!By Carolyn K. Collins 

Natural Cures For Skin Allergies

Hives are an allergic skin reaction during which certain cells release histamine and other inflammatory chemicals. These chemicals cause small blood vessels in the area to leak and this causes the raised patches of skin - somewhat circular in shape. There may only be one or there can be many red patches. They last from one to three days. They can be white, pink or red and are itchy. They may also burn or sting. If the allergic reaction involves other systems of the body there may be a wheeze and difficulty in breathing, swollen lips and eyelids and general flushing. This can be a serious allergic situation and medical assistance needs to be sought immediately.

Our bodies are equipped with an immune system that is designed to recognize harmful substances that get into our blood stream or organs. The harmful substance or allergen enters our bodies and the immune system reacts through a system of plasma proteins called immunoglobulins - these search out and destroy the intruder. This is a complex process with many steps involved. During the process the cells release histamine and other chemicals that cause the familiar allergic symptoms - swelling, itching, hives or sneezing and so forth. In the lungs these chemicals can cause muscle spasms, which in turn narrows the air passages making it difficult to breathe.

To have this allergic reaction our systems must first be primed - become sensitive to the allergen. One or more encounters with the allergen are required before the sensitization develops. The first exposure 'programs' our immune system to recognize and react in a certain way when encountering the allergen. Subsequent exposure results in the allergic response.

The factors that trigger an allergic reaction can be varied and may include:

• Grasses and other plants
• Pollen
• Insect bites
• Food additives and certain foods
• Drugs
• Any of an enormous range of chemicals found in the air, water and generally in the environment
• Dust
• Animal dander
• and so forth

When the body is in good health it can be very tolerant to the invasion of incoming chemicals or foreign proteins. However, if the liver is overloaded with toxic material and the lymphatic system is already congested with unsuccessful attempts to clear waste from the tissue an allergic reaction can manifest. Some people are genetically predisposed to producing large amounts of histamine. Stress will also play its part with most conditions. When the body is in a relaxed state many instances of inflammation in the tissues can be avoided.

What you can do

All of the recommendations for hives and other allergic reactions are aimed at improving overall health and vitality. This is achieved by removing toxins from the body, making sure that a healthy eliminative diet is eaten, that the body has the nutrients that it needs to heal and obtain balance.

However, the first place to start is to eliminate the offending substance from contact or entry into the body. If the allergen problem is food or food additives, for example, it is important that the foods be eliminated from the diet. If the problem is dust or moulds or pollens it is important for these to be eliminated - so that the immune system has a chance to rest and regain its balance.

• Follow safe colon cleansing principles - this means that the whole body - including the lymphatic and immune systems will be cleansed and this is an effect way to assist the body to regain a balanced immune system.
• The diet needs to be based on salads, vegetables, fruit and a moderate level of protein intake. It is particularly important for anything that suppresses the immune system and congests the lymphatic system needs to be removed from the diet. This means all sugars, dairy products, fatty food, all process and refined foods and fatty foods. Eliminating these foods will also provide the body with the opportunity to begin eliminating toxic material. This will begin to allow a rebalancing of the immune system.
• In addition to eating a healthy diet it is important to supplement the nutrients that are eaten so that there are plenty available for the healing process. The nutrients that are needed can be obtained from a good multivitamin and mineral supplement. In particular vitamins C and the B group vitamins are needed.
• It is also important to limit the toxic load that the body has to deal with as much as is possible. This means stop smoking , avoid alcohol, reduce or eliminate the chemicals that are used in and around the house, use organic foods and so forth.
• There are two groups of herbs that will provide assistance. Those cleanse the liver and those that cleanse the lymphatic system. Herbs for cleansing the liver are:

• Dandelion

• Milk thistle
• Burdock
• Centaury
• Fringe tree Herbs for cleansing the lymphatic system are:
• Red clover
• Burdock
• Cleavers
• Violet leaves In addition to the liver and lymphatic herbs the following can be useful. The following can be made as a tea and then applied as a compress to the affected area.
• Liquorice (licorice) has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy properties. It acts in similar ways to cortisol - the bodies own anti-inflammatory hormone. As well as using liquorice internally as a tea you can also apply the tea to the affected skin with a clean cloth three or four times per day. Be aware of the issues related to liquorice before you use it internally.
• Chamomile is also an anti-inflammatory that you can take internally as well as applying the tea to the hives three or four times per day. You can also use it in a lukewarm bath. If you are allergic to other members of the daisy family you may also be allergic to chamomile.
• Diluted, distilled witch hazel can be used externally to ease the itching.

The following is a useful formula:

• 4 tablespoons chamomile
• 1 tablespoon licorice
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• 1 teaspoonful turmeric or 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 3 cups water

Place the herbs into a medium saucepan and add the water. Bring to the boil and then simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and allow to cool. Place on a gauze cloth and apply to the affected area. Refrigerate any left over for later use.

Hives are an allergic skin reaction that cause raised patches of skin. There may only be one or there can be many red patches. They are one of a range of conditions that indicates hypersensitivity of the immune system. The underlying problems that have lead to the hypersensitivity and allergic responses need to be addressed - as well as providing immediate relief from the skin inflammation.By Dr Jenny Tylee

Avoid Foods That Create Inflammation and End Joint Pain

If you have swollen, inflamed joints you may have realized certain foods create inflammation. If you avoid them, you may be able to reduce your pain without harsh medications.

Now, there can be a lot of reasons for aching joints.

In the case of osteoarthritis, the degeneration of cartilage at the joints is the main culprit. Bursitis is another condition that causes joint pain, in which the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the bones at the joints become inflamed. There are also autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, that can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joint areas.

In autoimmune disorders, the body's immune system fails to tell the difference between healthy tissues and harmful substances in the body. This results to a hypersensitivity reaction that destroys even healthy body tissues.

One of the body's first responses to irritations of this sort is inflammation. This accounts for the swelling, redness, and pain in the joints felt by persons who suffer from autoimmune diseases. However, research has recently shown that swelling can be aggravated by foods that create inflammation.

Foods high in linoleic acid, a kind of omega-6 essential fatty acid, are known to increase have inflammatory effects. Examples of these are corn, peanut, and soy.

On the other hand, foods that are rich in omega-3 such as tuna and other coldwater fish, have a soothing effect on joint pains. Roughly 100 years ago, most Westerners had a well-balanced diet rich in both omega-6 and omega-3 food sources. However, now nutritionists agree that omega-6-rich foods that cause inflammation far outweigh omega-3 foods in the high-carbohydrates and low-protein diet that most Americans eat today.

Here is a list of some of the foods that can create inflammation and joint pains:

• Dairy products such as cow's milk and cheese contain lactose, a substance that can cause allergic reactions, which may trigger swelling of the bone junctions in the body.

• Refined sugars like white sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, and confectioner's sugar are also best avoided if you suffer from joint pains. Opt for natural sweeteners like honey instead.

• Grains with gluten like wheat, oats and rye can quickly trigger an inflammatory reaction.

• Polyunsaturated oils like sunflower, corn, soy, safflower and peanut oils are high in linoleic acid, which can have an inflammatory effect on the body.

• Caffeine, which is present in coffee, soda, or tea, is known to increase inflammation in cases of people who suffer from joint pains.

• Red meat such as beef, lamb and pork too can increase aches and pains in your joints. If you eat more chicken and fish you may notice less pain.

There are surely many foods that can create inflammation and result to joint pains. However, this doesn't mean that you have to eliminate these foods entirely from your diet.

You can experiment by avoiding them all at once, then slowly reintroducing each one back into your diet, just to see which foods would really trigger the inflammation and joint pain reactions in your body. Or, you can cut back gradually. Doctors say adding omega-3 fish oil supplements to your diet can help balance your fatty acids and relieve inflammation too.-By Jennifer P. April

How To Prevent an Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

What is an UTI?

- Urinary tract infection, or UTI, is a generic name given to a bacterial infection in any part of the urinary tract (diagramed at right). A UTI occurs when bacteria enter the body through the urethra, and colonize the bladder or kidneys.

Symptoms include:
- frequent urination
- urges with little or no subsequent urination
- burning at the meatus (or opening) of the urethra during urination
- pus in the urine
- blood in the urine
- cloudy urine
- abdominal pain
- fever

Homemade Natural Remedies & Aromatherapy
Prevention Tips
Most of us will get at least one UTI during the course of our lifetime, no matter how careful we may be. However, there are simple things you can do to minimize your risk and/or prevent reinfection. Both men and women are susceptible to urinary tract infections, but because of the proximity of the anus and vagina to the opening of the urethra on the female anatomy, women are much more vulnerable. Here are a few rules of thumb to reduce your likelihood of infection:

- Drink plenty of fluids every day, preferably enough to prompt urination every hour.
- Urinate frequently and try to empty your bladder each time you do.
- Do not "hold it," or ignore the urge to urinate.
- Wash your hands and genitals before and after sexual contact.
- Wear loose clothing during physical activity.
-Drink extra water during and after exercising.
- Take showers, rather than baths, or urinate soon after batheing.
- Reduce your caffeine and alcohol intake.
- Avoid refined sugars and starches, as they may feed bacteria, sticking as much as possible to high-fiber whole-grain foods.
- Drink at least one glass of cranberry, orange, or grapefruit juice daily to acidify your urine and kill existing harmful bacteria.
- Reduce your stress to boost your immunity.
- Take daily vitamins, particularly vitamins C and B6, as well as a magnesium-calcium supplement

A few tips specifically for women:
- Wipe from front to back after using the toilet, to keep bacteria from your vgina and anus away from your urethra.
- Be sure to urinate and drink a glass of water soon after sxual int course, to flush out any bacteria that might have entered the urinary tract before they have a chance to anchor.
- Change sanitary napkins frequently, as the blood may provide a bridge from the urethra to your vegina and anus.
- If you find yourself prone to UTIs, consider changing your birth control method, as some women find that certain contraceptives (such as vaginal suppositories and foams) irritate the urethra.
- If you think you might have a UTI already, please make the earliest available appointment with your doctor. While the tips above may speed recovery, they are meant primarily as preventative measures, and are not a replacement for the antibiotics needed to cure your infection.