Tomatoes
Tomatoes include vitamin C and lycopene. Lycopene lowers heart disease and cancer risk. Greek yogurt, sliced tomatoes, lemon zest, and mint make a refreshing snack on toast.
BEST
Tea or Coffee
Green, black, white, and oolong teas contain polyphenols. Antioxidants in coffee protect cells. Avoid high-fat cream and sugar.
BEST
Apples
Apples contain flavonols and anthocyanins. Eat the peel, which provides gut-healthy fiber.
BEST
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Whole Grains
Refined grains are inferior to whole-wheat bread, pasta, rice, barley, and oatmeal. They're fiber-rich and nutrient-rich, so your blood sugar won't increase. Substitute brown rice, pasta, and bread for white.
BEST
Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate is your best indulgence! Anthocyanins and catechins are polyphenols.
BEST
Refined Carbs
Refined carbohydrates raise and drop blood sugar because the body burns them fast. White flour, bread, and rice contain them.
Worst
Processed Meats
Bacon, sausage, hot dogs, and cold meats contain saturated fats. Nitrate preservatives may also increase inflammation.
Full-Fat Dairy
Calcium and protein from low-fat or non-fat dairy help stabilize blood sugar. Full-fat dairy is unnecessary.
Worst
Baking
Refined carbohydrates in baked goods cause a blood sugar surge and inflammation. The 80/20 rule applies: Indulge sometimes. Eat non-inflammatory meals 80% of the time and your favorite sweets 20%.
Worst
Sweetened Beverages
Sugary beverages including soda, juices, hot chocolate, and sweetened coffee might exacerbate inflammation. These drinks are linked to obesity and LDL cholesterol.