Inflammation is a natural response that the body has, to help heal damaged cells and tissues. When the immune system detects an injury or threat, it triggers an inflammatory response to destroy foreign substances and throw out any dead or dying cells. However, the immune system can go too far with its response, which leads to chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints, muscles, tendons, skin, and even organs throughout the body. Fortunately, some effective supplements target chronic inflammation. Read on to learn about the top 8 supplements to reduce inflammation in the body.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, also known as alpha-linolenic acid, are naturally found in flaxseed and can be taken as a supplement. Studies have found that consuming omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation due to the anti-inflammatory effects of the fatty acids. In particular, fish oil, which is the richest dietary source of omega-3 fatty acids, has been found to have anti-inflammatory effects.
Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, arthritis, and other inflammatory diseases. Studies have also found that taking omega-3 fatty acids may protect against psychiatric disorders. They may also improve sleep. Furthermore, these fatty acids may support brain development in children. Taking omega-3 fatty acids may also help reduce stress and improve mood and concentration.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a common spice in many cuisines and has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. It’s now widely used in Western medicine due to its potential to reduce chronic inflammation. Turmeric is a yellow-orange fruit that’s part of the ginger family. It’s used as a spice, but it’s also been used widely in Eastern medicine for thousands of years due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Studies have found that curcumin, the active component in turmeric, has potentially promising effects for reducing joint pain and improving joint function. It may also help ease the symptoms of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia.
Chlorella
Most people are probably familiar with Spirulina as a natural health food supplement but are less likely to know about Chlorella. While Spirulina is a staple of Western health food stores, Chlorella is an under-studied and under-consumed superfood. Chlorella is a single-cell algae that’s one of the most nutrient-rich foods on the planet. While most people are probably familiar with blue-green algae as a health supplement, most people aren’t aware of the many benefits of Chlorella.
One of the main benefits of Chlorella is its potential to reduce chronic inflammation in the body. This may be due to the potent anti-inflammatory properties of chlorophyll, a compound found in Chlorella. Chlorella may also be an effective way to improve levels of cholesterol and blood glucose due to its ability to increase the uptake of iron in the body.
Boswellia Serrata Gum Resin
Boswellia is a resin from a tree that’s been used in traditional Indian medicine for thousands of years. Now, there’s evidence to suggest that it may have anti-inflammatory benefits due to the resveratrol content in the plant. Resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant found in many foods, including grapes, raspberries, dark chocolate, and red wine. Research suggests that resveratrol may help reduce chronic inflammation in the body and may also be beneficial for conditions such as high blood pressure, metabolic disorders, and cancer.
Boswellia’s gum resin has been used in traditional Indian medicine to treat pain, and inflammatory conditions, and to improve joint health. Recent research suggests that Boswellia gum resin may have the potential to reduce chronic inflammation in the body.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glucosamine is a common supplement that’s often used to help heal arthritis and other joint diseases. However, research suggests that it may have the potential to also help reduce chronic inflammation in the body. Glucosamine is a compound that’s often taken as a supplement. It’s commonly used to treat arthritis, but it may have anti-inflammatory properties because it encourages the growth of beneficial cells in the body.
Chondroitin is another compound found in many supplements that may also have anti-inflammatory properties. It’s been shown to improve joint function in older people and may also help reduce chronic inflammation in the body.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is one of the oldest dietary supplements on the planet. It’s a common ingredient in many cuisines and is often used as a spice to add flavor to many dishes. However, cayenne pepper has also been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years to treat common health issues, including inflammation.
Cayenne pepper has been shown to have the potential to reduce inflammation in the body, including in the gastrointestinal system. It may also help to reduce pain and improve joint function. Studies have also found that cayenne pepper may help to maintain healthy blood pressure and have anti-inflammatory effects on the cardiovascular system.
EGCG from Matcha Tea
Matcha tea is a type of green tea that’s often used as a dietary supplement. Matcha tea is grown in the shade, which causes the leaves to be darker in color and stronger in flavor than many other types of green tea. EGCG, or epigallocatechin gallate, is a powerful antioxidant found in many types of tea, including matcha. EGCG has been associated with the potential to reduce chronic inflammation in the body and may also help to fight against chronic diseases.
Studies have found that consuming EGCG from matcha tea may help to reduce oxidative stress in the body and may also help to reduce chronic inflammation. Matcha is a type of green tea that’s grown in Japan. It’s a rich source of plant antioxidants, including EGCG, that may help to reduce inflammation in the body.
Supplements to reduce inflammation in the body
Many supplements can help reduce inflammation in your body, including omega-3 fatty acids from fish or algae and turmeric, chlorella, Boswellia, glucosamine and chondroitin, and cayenne pepper. Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, especially if you’re taking regular medications. For more information on supplements for inflammation, check out Healthline.
Also, keep in mind that not all supplements will have the same effect on every person. If you’re struggling with joint pain, get help now with Joint Pain 101.
