Is the anti-inflammatory diet the new fad diet to follow? For the dancer or athlete, it is important to consider foods that have anti-inflammatory properties due to the amount of physical activity the body is performing. Inflammation is a natural response to an injury or infection. However, it is not healthy to constantly have inflammation in the body. Here are some healthy tips to decrease inflammation due to stress on the body from vigorous exercise or injury:
1. Increase intake of fruits and vegetables
2. Decrease consumption of alcohol
3. Consume less saturated and trans fats
4. Stay away from processed foods
5. Eat more whole grains and lean proteins
6. Increase omega-3 intake
These are just a few important tips to decrease inflammation by focusing specifically on diet. Dancers and other athletes may experience inflammation every day so these guidelines are used to prevent too much inflammation. The increase in intake of fruits and vegetables and other healthy foods and the decrease in intake of processed foods, “bad” fats, and alcohol will lessen inflammation in the body. Diet alone plays an important role in controlling inflammation along with other strategies such as ice or anti-inflammatory medication. By following these guidelines, dancers and athletes can reduce inflammation that may occur in their everyday lives.
Resources:
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, http://www.eatright.org
Healthy Answers For Dancers 