A lot of people like to start the new year with a plan to get in shape, or simply just eat healthier.
Sometimes, people are looking for meals to help them lose weight, but other times it’s just food that makes them feel better. If you’ve been searching for a way to reduce chronic inflammation, you may want to take a closer look at mealtime.
What you eat can sometimes help relieve certain symptoms of chronic inflammation, such as high blood pressure, digestive issues, and joint stiffness.
Dark leafy greens, fatty fish, legumes, and herbs are all anti-inflammatory, and commonly part of a Mediterranean diet. Introducing these items can not only make a nutritious meal that’s good for you, but one that also tastes good. Think about starting a 30-day plan with things such as grilled shrimp, whole-wheat couscous and chopped kale. Salmon is a good choice, too. Make it on a sheet pan with lime, cilantro, broccoli, and sweet potatoes. If you don’t have a lot of time, but you still want a great, healthy meal, you can try making a Mediterranean-style stew with chicken, white beans, and spinach in your slow cooker.
If you don’t want to do meat or fish, you can always make a main course such as white bean and veggie salad.
You mix up whichever seasonal vegetables you want, then add in white beans and avocado for the health benefits, and the flavor. Another healthy option that will warm you up this winter is three-bean chili. Use whichever beans you want, then add in oregano, paprika, chili, cumin, and, of course, peppers. Capsaicin is what makes hot peppers hot, and it’s also known to have some anti-inflammatory properties, itself. Experimenting with the hot pepper scale and a few new recipes doesn’t have to be complicated to get some health benefits and a good dose of flavor.
