Inflammation is a normal part of the body's immune response but when it goes out of control like in the case of rheumatoid arthritis, it can actually damage the body. Surprisingly, foods have a great role to play when it comes to inflammation control.

Foods that are high in unsaturated fats and sugars are known to spur inflammation because they trigger over-activity in the immune system which consequently results in fatigue and joint pain. This implies that adding anti inflammatory vegetables to your diet is much more than a passing fad and is a great reason why you should explore some of these natural remedies to inflammation.

Dark Leafy Greens

Research now indicates that vitamin E may protect your body from some of the inflammatory molecules. The best source of this vitamin is dark green vegetables such as collard greens, kale, broccoli and spinach. Besides, they also have a higher concentration of minerals like iron and calcium, which are also essential to human health.

Peppers

When talking of anti inflammatory vegetables, nutritionists often recommend colorful peppers and tomatoes in any diet. This is because they have sufficient amounts of antioxidants, vitamins as well as low levels of starch. Bell peppers for instance, are available in different shades and colors. Hot peppers have an abundance of capsaicin, one of the chemicals which is used in topical creams to reduce inflammation and pain.

Tomatoes

They can also be grouped among the nightshade anti inflammatory vegetables but they often stand on their own. However, these are known to work for some people because human beings differ in terms of their body compositions and what they react to. Juiced red tomatoes to be precise, are rich in lycopene, a compound which is known to reduce inflammation on the lungs and other parts of the body. Cooked tomatoes contain more of this compound than raw ones, a reason why tomato sauces will work too.

Beets

The brilliant red color of these vegetables is a tip-off to the brilliant antioxidant properties that it has. Beets and beetroot juice not only reduce inflammation but also protect the body against cancer and heart diseases because of the high amounts of vitamin C, fiber and betalains.

Ginger and Turmeric

These are spices that are common in Indian and Asian cooking. They add value to the list of anti inflammatory vegetables. When ginger is taken in supplement form, it reduces cases of inflammation in the intestines. Turmeric on the other hand, turns off one of the protein elements in the body which is known to trigger the process of inflammation.

Olive Oil

This is one of the natural products outside the list of anti inflammatory vegetables which is known to reduce inflammation. Essentially, any substance which is healthy to the heart is also good for inflammation, including the plant-based fats such as olive oil. The extra virgin olive oil has been found to contain a compound which has similar effects as the NSAID painkillers, a reason why it is good for controlling inflammation.

In general, there are several natural foods which can take the place of anti inflammatory vegetables but owing to the availability and health benefits that vegetables carry, it is recommended that you include them in all your servings.