Anti-Inflammatory Functional Foods

Abstract

Chronic inflammation is caused by an over-expression or lack of control of the normal protective mechanisms and has been linked to heart disease, osteoporosis, cognitive decline and Alzheimer's, type-2 diabetes and arthritis. Current medications include treatment with steroids that reduce inflammation or swelling. Long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can cause several side effects and in extreme cases can cause severe haemorrhage and renal effects. There are other various anti-inflammatory nutrients which reduce the level of these biomarkers. The polyphenols show significant anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-DNA damaging effects. Anti-inflammatory foods such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables, which provide valuable antioxidant polyphenols, resveratrol, lycopene, phytosterols, curcuminoids, quercetin, epigallocatechin gallate, phenolic acids, alleviates inflammation, as well as strengthening the immune system. The present chapter would thus focus on the phytochemicals of nutraceutical importance for combating inflammation naturally.