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Monday 15 October 2018

6 Foods that Reduce Brain Inflammation

When you hear “brain inflammation,” you may think of a swollen brain, but that’s not what this article is about. It’s about inflammation on a microscopic level.
Chronic inflammation affects the entire body, including the brain, and since the brain is very delicate, minor inflammation can lead to serious health problems such as depression, Alzheimer’s, anxiety, and dementia.
The good news is brain inflammation is not beyond your control. You can keep your brain healthy by simply changing your diet. Below are foods that help reduce brain inflammation.

FOODS THAT REDUCE BRAIN INFLAMMATION

Before I share with you the anti-inflammatory foods to add to your diet, make sure you cut back on refined carbs and vegetable oil, since they increase brain inflammation.

1. Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate that has high amounts of cocoa is loaded with flavanoids and antioxidants that reduce inflammation. 
In fact, research shows that dark chocolate that contains at least 70 percent cocoa and 30 percent organic cane sugar can ease stress and inflammation.

2. Coffee and Tea

You may know that a moderate intake of coffee is associated with a longer life. Well, the caffeine coffee (and tea!) can also reduce brain inflammation and as a result, lower the risk of age-related cognitive conditions like dementia.
A study published in the journal Nature Medicine explains that caffeine helps block pathways that produce inflammatory molecules.

3. Gingko Biloba

Even though this is an herbal supplement, it’s definitely worth mentioning. Gingko biloba improves blood circulation in the entire body, which means more blood to your brain.
Some say that this herb can make you smarter, but those claims are not backed by science. I may note that gingko biloba interacts warfarin, so talk to your doctor before taking it, if you’re currently taking warfarin or any other blood thinner.

4. Green Tea

Green tea contains Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which may help fight inflammation. A recent study found that EGCG can fight brain inflammation caused by unhealthy fats and high-sugar foods.
The authors of the study warn that green tea is not a ‘magic elixir’ for your body or brain. You still need to cut back on processed foods to reduce brain inflammation.

5. Blueberries and Walnuts

Findings from this study show that walnuts and blueberries can fight brain inflammation. They contain antioxidants that block free radicals, which increase inflammation.

6. Turmeric

Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound that has many benefits to the brain. This studyfound that curcumin eased depression by reducing brain inflammation.

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