Thrive In 2022 With CBD And Anti-Inflammatory Foods

CBD isn’t “food,” but when used alongside anti-inflammatory foods, you’ll see AMAZING results! Thrive in 2022 with CBD and anti-inflammatory foods.

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We know, we know. You’re probably already sick of the “New year, New ME” messages. Fortunately, we’re not going to tell you to purchase some expensive piece of exercise equipment or throw out everything in your fridge. In fact, we’re giving you permission to snack MORE! Sure, you can swap out your typical foods for these if you want. But simply adding anti-inflammatory foods to your routine will make a huge difference—especially if you’re also using a CBD supplement 😉

If you haven’t already guessed it, our resolution for 2022 is to reduce inflammation. Whether you’re at the pinnacle of your health or starting a brand new wellness routine, keeping inflammation in check is good for you. It helps you feel your best, perform your best, and sometimes even LOOK your best.

If you’re looking for simple ways to be healthier, keep reading and learn how to thrive in 2022 with CBD and anti-inflammatory foods.

Why Are Anti-Inflammatories So Important?

First, inflammation is completely natural, necessary, and a normal part of everyone’s health journey. Picture this — You regularly run three miles on the treadmill, but it’s a gorgeous day outside so you decide to hit the pavement. While you enjoyed the sunshine, those concrete sidewalks took a toll on your knees and the next day they’re tender and sore. That’s normal acute inflammation!

Inflammation is one of the tools your immune system uses to help protect and heal. However, too much inflammation (or chronic inflammation) can be uncomfortable, painful, and cause other health problems. Luckily, when we eat anti-inflammatory foods or take anti-inflammatory supplements, we can minimize inflammation for less pain, better mobility, and less risk of additional health problems.

Traditionally, people have relied on NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like aspirin or ibuprofen to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, or bring fevers down. Unfortunately, relying on NSAIDs long-term can come with a long list of unwanted side effects—nausea, ulcers, kidney damage, liver damage, etc.

Luckily, supplements like CBD (cannabidiol) provides the same effects as NSAIDs without the same risks.

CBD is a Powerful Anti-Inflammatory

The reason CBD is such a powerful anti-inflammatory is because of how it interacts with our bodies. Our ECS (endocannabinoid system) promotes balance or homeostasis. That means it may help us have a balanced appetite, hormones, mood, sleep cycle, adrenal response, a balanced immune system, and more. It accomplishes that through the use of naturally occurring endocannabinoid compounds.

When an imbalance is detected, endocannabinoids bind with ECS receptors to create a chemical response that brings balance back to your body. You’re not even aware of it, but your body is constantly at work trying to keep you happy and healthy (even when it doesn’t feel like it). So, what role does CBD have in this?

CBD is very similar to the natural endocannabinoids your body already uses. The idea is that supplementing with CBD gives your ECS more cannabinoids to help it accomplish its many tasks. CBD mostly affects the immune system, so it boosts the power of your ECS so that it can more effectively balance the immune system. That means a less aggressive inflammatory response from your immune system!

The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD are so powerful that it can have a positive impact on your life in several ways:

Obviously, we think CBD supplements (oils, gels, and/or gummies) can benefit everyone in MANY ways. However, when you combine a CBD supplement with anti-inflammatory foods, the results are seriously amazing. That being said, here are a few anti-inflammatory foods you should consider adding to your diet in 2022!

Add Anti-Inflammatory Vegetables to Your Diet

Whether you’re basing an entire meal off of these vegetables or if you’re simply snacking, adding anti-inflammatory vegetables to your diet is phenomenal for your overall health and wellness. According to Harvard Health Publishing, the following vegetables are anti-inflammatory:

Tomatoes
Kale
Collard greens
Swiss chard
Beets
Sweet potatoes
Brussels sprouts
Asparagus
Carrots
Celery
Mushrooms
Zucchini
Cabbage
Cauliflower
Peas

Snack on Anti-Inflammatory Seeds and Nuts

A surprising number of people simply don’t eat seeds and/or nuts, even though they’re one of the simplest foods to snack on. You can eat them by themselves, as a dessert (hello, chia pudding!), or you can add them to smoothies or granola! According to the Arthritis Foundation, the following seeds and nuts are anti-inflammatory:

Walnuts
Peanuts
Pumpkin seeds
Flaxseed
Chia seeds

Eat Anti-Inflammatory Fruits Everyday

For those who have a persuasive sweet tooth, snacking on anti-inflammatory fruits may help cut down on your sugar cravings! According to Harvard Health Publishing, the following fruits have powerful anti-inflammatory properties:

Apples
Cherries
Peaches
Apricots
Plums
Grapes
Oranges
Grapefruit
Lemons
Limes
Pomegranate

Regularly Take Anti-Inflammatory Supplements

While we’re big advocates for CBD supplements, there’s a wide variety of other herbs, spices, and minerals that can contribute to your anti-inflammatory goals. Some of them can easily be added to your meals (a dash of black pepper, turmeric, etc.), but others are much easier to consume as a supplement to your diet.

Try to Avoid or Reduce These Inflammatory Foods

Foods that can cause or exacerbate inflammation are, unfortunately, often delicious. Seriously, take a peek at the list below and you’ll probably see something that’s used to cook a mouthwatering treat (candy, fried foods, etc.). However, when it comes to mental health, a treat is sometimes essential!

So, we’re not going to tell you to completely eliminate them (although feel free to do so if you’re so inclined). You should, however, avoid or reduce the following inflammatory foods: