Fight inflammation with food

For those of us with arthritis and other types of inflammation that often accompanies aging, consider eating foods that help to reduce acute (temporary) and chronic (ongoing) inflammation.

These anti-inflammatory foods are known to contain fiber and can be good for gut health, too:

• Oily fish – like tuna and salmon
• Whole grains – brown rice and quinoa
• Legumes – beans and lentils
• Animal protein, such as chicken and eggs
• Dark, leafy green vegetables – kale and spinach
• Cruciferous veggies – broccoli and cabbage
• Fruits – including blueberries and blackberries
• Healthy fats – unsalted nuts, seeds, avocado, olive oil

“If you need to make major dietary changes because you often order take-out or eat a lot of highly processed foods, make changes slowly,” suggests Nurse Alexis Roam, Director of Quality Improvement, CHI Living Communities / CommonSpirit Health. “Try adding just one of these foods every few days, gradually including more into your diet over several weeks.”

As importantly, cut back on red meat and foods high in sugar, sodium, trans fats and saturated fats. These include white bread; pastries; deli meats; fast food; French fries; and sugary drinks, including beer and alcohol.

“With small changes over time, you’re likely to feel better by getting more nutrients and fiber to help beat painful inflammation,” says Roam. “Ask your health care provider for additional tips.”

Our CHI Living Communities campuses each have a chef who specializes in cooking for aging adults. While snacks and treats are always available, our residents also have plenty of healthy choices for their meals.

One of the many benefits of living at a senior living community such as ours is that your nutritional needs are important for us. We understand providing our residents with healthy food choices that look appealing adds to their well-being.