Inflammation is the natural way in which the body reacts to any wound, infection, or injury which is a part of the body’s defense mechanism. Acute inflammation is quite normal and a natural response of the body to an injury that promotes healing.
It is short-term in nature and eliminates any threats regarding the injury. In contrast, chronic inflammation persists for weeks, months, or even years and is an area of concern.
It eventually turns into a long-term condition that damages the tissue and negatively impacts the entire body.
5 Best Vitamins To Fight Inflammation
Vitamins are natural compounds that help in different biochemical processes of the body. They facilitate growth, development, and overall well-being and ensure that good health is maintained.
Moreover, it supports metabolism, immune system functions, cell development, and repair. Specific vitamins also help to reduce inflammation which allows the individual to have a balanced immune response.
1. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant researched for its potential benefits to reduce inflammation and tissue damage.
It eliminates free radicals, which are produced by the body during inflammation that could damage cells and tissues if in excess amounts.
Moreover, it also supports the immune system by enhancing its function and helps in regulating the inflammatory response.
Sources of Vitamin C
👉Fruits: Fruits like oranges, grapes, lemons, limes, and berries including strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries are rich sources of vitamin C.
👉Vegetables: Bell peppers, broccoli, kale, spinach, tomatoes, and cauliflower are high in vitamin C.
👉Supplements: Other than dietary options vitamin C could also be consumed with supplement intake.
2. Vitamin D
Vitamin D also strengthens the function of the immune system while regulating the inflammatory response. It helps to tackle prolonged inflammation by suppressing the excessive reaction and maintaining a balanced one.
Sources of Vitamin D
👉Sunlight: Sunlight is an excellent source of vitamin D and getting enough sunlight, especially during early morning or late afternoon is highly beneficial and recommended for the production of vitamin D.
👉Food: It could also be consumed from a variety of food items including egg yolks, orange juice, milk, salmon, and sardines.
👉Supplements: If you have trouble getting enough vitamin D through food or sun exposure another considerable options are supplements.
3. Vitamin E
Vitamin E plays a prominent role in inflammation reduction with its antioxidant properties. It helps to have a balanced reaction by preventing the enzymes that facilitates inflammation. It also protects from the damage caused by excess free radicles by destroying them.
Sources of Vitamin E
👉Nuts and seeds: These are a magnificent source of vitamin E. With the consumption of almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and hazelnuts one could meet the vitamin E requirements.
👉Greens: Green leaves like spinach, turnip greens, and collard greens are excellent sources of vitamin E.
👉Fruits: Some fruits like kiwi, mango, blackberries, and blueberries are rich sources of vitamin E.
4. Vitamin A
Vitamin A effectively reduces inflammation and enhances bodily functions by supporting the immune system. The profound impact of vitamin A on T cells and macrophages also helps to reduce the intensity of the response.
Sources of Vitamin A
👉Animal Sources: Vitamin A is found in foods that are derived from animals. Some of them are dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt. Other sources are eggs and fish which improve vitamin A levels.
👉Vegetables and Fruits: Vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and kale are effective sources of this vitamin. Also, fruits including mangoes, papaya, and watermelon help to get the right range of vitamin A.
5. B Vitamins (B6 and B12)
The B vitamins B6 and B12 are part of the functioning of the immune system and have an active role in inflammation response.
While B6 is responsible for the synthesis of various neurotransmitters and molecules, B12 is associated with the production of red blood cells. Both these vitamins support the body’s ability to effectively manage inflammation.
Sources of B Vitamins
👉Poultry: Chicken and turkey are renowned sources of vitamins B6 and B12.
👉Fish: Fish such as salmon, tuna, and trout are rich sources of B6 and B12.
👉Others: Other options include spinach, nuts, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Conclusion
The consumption of all these vitamins through their adequate source could be beneficial to reduce inflammation and for a controlled immune response.
Although a vitamin-rich diet could accelerate the inflammation reduction process it is not the only approach that should be considered.
If the inflammation persists or worsens seeking medical advice and following a treatment plan is the responsible thing to do.
