Avoiding a sedentary lifestyle and eating a nutritious diet is the key to fighting and preventing chronic inflammation. While we can’t stop inflammation by consuming just one kind of food, there are some nutrient-dense foods we can include in our diet to help.
To learn about some of the greatest vegetables for reducing inflammation and slowing aging, keep reading.
1 — Bell peppers
Bell peppers are a versatile vegetable that taste great cooked or raw with your favorite dip. They’re also beneficial for managing inflammation and slowing aging, according to our nutritionists!
“Vitamin A and vitamin C, which are natural antioxidants, are abundant in bell peppers. They’re also high in water and fiber, making them a hydrating vegetable. Their high antioxidant levels make them anti-inflammatory, which means they may help reduce inflammation in the body,” explains Dana Ellis Hunnes, a registered dietitian.
2 — Broccoli
Broccoli is another nutrient-dense vegetable that may be included in your next meal to help you slow the progression of age-related illness caused by chronic inflammation.
“Broccoli is packed with sulfurophanes, which are antioxidants that are very beneficial and anti-inflammatory. Broccoli contains a lot of water, as well as calcium and fiber, contributing to its anti-inflammatory benefits. It also has a significant amount of plant-based protein compared to other vegetables,” adds Hunnes.
3 — White potatoes
Potatoes are a carb-heavy vegetable that has divided opinions, but this subterranean plant is high in beneficial compounds that may help to slow down the aging process.
“Potatoes are high in fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and can help to combat free radicals. White potatoes may help to reduce cholesterol, inflammation, and blood pressure in the body,” explains Veronica Rouse, MAN, RD, CDE., a qualified expert on diet.
4 — Dark leafy greens
Green vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard, are an essential component of any healthy diet since they are high in nutrients.
“Spinach, arugula, romaine lettuce, kale, and Swiss chard are high in several minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. Vitamins K, A, C, and E, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, and fiber are all present in spinach. Eating dark green leafy vegetables may aid in the reduction of inflammation throughout the body while also promoting general health.” says registered dietitian Mandy Tyler.