Sound familiar, Seafoodies?
Do you ever feel a little “off?” It could be lingering joint pain, fatigue or some recurring GI issues. When seasonal bugs make the rounds, maybe you and your family seem to catch them all. These, along with other symptoms, could all be signs of chronic inflammation.
One way to think of inflammation is as your body’s internal alarm system. When you get a paper cut or catch a cold, that alarm triggers healing responses—redness, swelling, heat or fever—all signs that your body is jumping into action to fix the problem. That’s acute inflammation, and it’s actually a good thing. But what happens when that inflammatory system gets stuck in the “on” position? That’s chronic inflammation, and it’s like having a fire alarm that won’t stop beeping even after the immediate fire has been put out.
Chronic inflammation can put your body’s defenses into overdrive. Your immune system starts treating everything as a threat—even things that should be welcome visitors. This constant state of high alert can lead to fatigue, joint pain and digestive issues that may contribute to more serious health concerns.
Apart from regular exercise and trying to reduce stress, one of the best ways to combat chronic inflammation is by eating anti-inflammatory foods. And here’s where seafood enters the picture! The omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA found in fish like salmon, mackerel and tuna are like a reset button for your body—helping to block the hormones that can ramp up inflammation. These nutrients calm down the inflammatory response, essentially telling your overworked security system to take a break and quit being so suspicious!
Seafood brings a whole range of inflammation-fighting nutrients to the table. Selenium works as an antioxidant, helping to clean up cellular damage. Vitamin B12 and niacin support your body’s natural repair processes too, keeping hearts healthy and reducing inflammation as well.
When it’s time to decide on your next meal, choosing seafood is your tastiest strategy for keeping inflammation in check. By adding two to three servings to your weekly menu, you’re giving your body the support it needs to help maintain its natural balance.
For some stellar seafood inspiration, check out our E-Cookbook, filled with 100+ quick and easy recipes. Because sometimes the best medicine isn’t in your cabinet—it’s on your plate!
