How do you reduce inflammation in the body fast?
Inflammation doesn’t always require treatment. For acute inflammation, rest, ice and good wound care often relieve discomfort in a few days.
If you have chronic inflammation, your healthcare provider may recommend:
See Also
Oat Straw Extract (Avena sativa): Benefits, Downsides, and Uses5 Types of Foods That Cause InflammationThe Best Foods for Healthy Joints | Inflammatory Foods to AvoidWhat is Chronic Inflammation (and How to Treat It)- Supplements: Certain vitamins (vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D) and supplements (zinc) may reduce inflammation and enhance repair. For example, your healthcare provider may prescribe a fish oil supplement or vitamin(s). Or you may use spices with anti-inflammatory properties, like turmeric, ginger or garlic.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These over-the-counter medicines lower inflammation. Your healthcare provider may recommend ibuprofen (Advil®), aspirin (Bayer®) or naproxen (Aleve®).
- Steroid injections: Corticosteroid shots decrease inflammation at a specific joint or muscle. For example, if you have rheumatoid arthritis that affects your hands, feet, shoulder or knees, your healthcare provider may give a steroid shot in these joints. You shouldn’t have more than three to four steroid injections in the same body part per year.
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What can I do at home for inflammation treatment?
You may choose to eat more foods that have anti-inflammatory properties. Some research shows that people who follow a Mediterranean diet have lower levels of inflammation in their bodies.
Foods that reduce inflammation include:
- Oily fish, like mackerel, salmon and sardines.
- Leafy greens, like spinach and kale.
- Olive oil.
- Whole grains
- Nuts.
Eating too much of certain foods may increase inflammation. If you have chronic inflammation, you may feel better if you avoid foods that cause inflammation, including:
- Fried foods, including many fast food items.
- Cured meats with nitrates, like hot dogs.
- Highly refined oils and trans fats.
- Refined carbohydrates, like sugar, pastries and white bread.
How can I prevent inflammation?
You may decrease your risk of chronic inflammation by developing healthier lifestyle habits. Some of these habits include:
- Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight for you.
- Avoiding or quitting smoking.
- Getting physical activity at least three to five times per week.
- Limiting your alcohol intake (maximum 2 ounces per day).
- Managing stress with healthy tools like meditation or journaling.
