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Fighting Chronic Disease with Diet
Did you know that there may be a link between inflammation in the body and a higher risk of chronic disease? This includes type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Inflammation can be caused by multiple sources, like fighting illness or an infection, smoking, autoimmune disorders, and chronic stress. Overtime, high levels of inflammation in the body can damage the body’s DNA and lead to an excessive production of free radicals and depletion of antioxidant defense in the body.
While research is still needed to determine the impact of diet on inflammation and how antioxidants can protect the body, it appears that eating a variety of nutritious foods can make a difference. Try out these recipes to boost your diet!
MEAL ONE:
Ginger Soy Glazed Chicken with Cucumber Mango Salad
Ginger is one of the spices thoughts to help reduce inflammation, and colorful fruits and vegetables contain phytonutrients. These are compounds found in plant foods thought to protect the body against free radicals and damage to cells. This recipe is full of powerful ingredients, but also tastes delicious! Pair it with a complex carbohydrate, like brown rice or brown rice noodles, to complete the meal. With Cucumber Mango Salad
MEAL TWO:
Crunchy Kale and Chicken Salad
Kale is often described as a superfood for good reason! This veggie is packed full of powerful antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, and iron. Pair it with chicken, nuts, dried fruit, and an easy homemade dressing to make this a winning lunch or dinner! You could also use lean ground turkey, beef, or canned tuna in place of the chicken. Massaging the kale can help make it more tender and easier to chew and digest.
MEAL THREE:
Oven Roasted Root Vegetables
Vegetable color means power, and that’s especially true when it comes to beets! These veggies are loaded with nutrients and antioxidants. However, beets aren’t the only star in this recipe! Combined with the other roasted root vegetables, this dish is a perfect side dish to any lean protein.
MEAL FOUR:
Turmeric Chicken Coconut Curry
Turmeric is another spice thought to help reduce inflammation and contains antioxidant properties. Most curries contain this ingredient, which is also what gives these dishes their bright yellow color. I like to also add turmeric into stir-fry recipes as well! Keep in mind that turmeric does have the potential to stain things, like cooking spoons, spatulas, and clothing. For this recipe, use olive oil, lite coconut milk, and low-sodium chicken broth to make it even healthier. You could also pair this with brown rice, whole wheat naan, or pita bread on the side.
MEAL FIVE:
Blueberry Balsamic Glazed Rosemary Chicken
Blueberries are a great addition to muffins, smoothies, and even savory dishes! Not only are they delicious, but they are also thought to have the highest antioxidant activity of commonly consumed fruits. Try out this recipe which is a perfect combination of savory and sweet. You could also try out a blueberry glaze with other lean proteins, like pork tenderloin or lean cuts of beef, which would also be delicious! Pair this with a fresh green veggie and a whole grain, like barley, farro, or brown rice, to complete the meal.