Diets That Assist With Chronic Inflammation
Flexitarian Diet
The Flexitarian Diet powerfully reduces chronic systemic inflammation through its abundance of anti-inflammatory phytochemicals, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids from plant sources while limiting pro-inflammatory saturated fats and advanced glycation end products from animal products. The diet provides high levels of polyphenols, flavonoids, and carotenoids that directly suppress inflammatory pathways. Studies show plant-based diets can reduce inflammatory markers like CRP and IL-6 by 20-40%.
Key foods: Berries like blueberries and strawberries, leafy greens like kale and spinach, turmeric and ginger, walnuts and flaxseeds, olive oil, tomatoes, green tea, fatty fish like salmon (occasional)
How does Flexitarian Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: Phytochemicals from colorful fruits and vegetables inhibit NF-κB and COX-2 inflammatory pathways at the cellular level, reducing production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The high antioxidant content neutralizes reactive oxygen species that trigger inflammatory cascades, while the favorable omega-3 to omega-6 ratio from plant sources and occasional fish promotes production of anti-inflammatory eicosanoids and specialized pro-resolving mediators that actively resolve inflammation.
Paleolithic Diet
The Paleo diet is rich in anti-inflammatory foods and eliminates pro-inflammatory processed foods and grains. Its emphasis on omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and nutrient-dense whole foods helps reduce systemic inflammation and supports immune function.
Key foods: Wild-caught salmon, grass-fed beef, blueberries, spinach, walnuts, coconut oil, turmeric
How does Paleolithic Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: The diet provides high levels of omega-3 fatty acids which directly suppress inflammatory pathways. Elimination of processed foods and grains reduces inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein and helps reset the body's inflammatory response.
Paleo Diet
The Paleo Diet is inherently anti-inflammatory, eliminating major dietary triggers of inflammation including gluten, refined sugars, processed seed oils, and dairy while emphasizing foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Studies consistently show reductions in inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein, IL-6, and TNF-alpha among Paleo dieters. The abundance of phytonutrients from colorful vegetables and fruits provides additional anti-inflammatory compounds that modulate immune responses.
Key foods: Wild-caught fatty fish like salmon and sardines, grass-fed beef and lamb, turmeric and ginger, leafy greens like spinach and kale, berries especially blueberries, walnuts, extra virgin olive oil, cruciferous vegetables
How does Paleo Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: The diet dramatically improves the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio by eliminating inflammatory seed oils and emphasizing omega-3 rich fish and grass-fed meats, directly reducing prostaglandin and leukotriene-mediated inflammation. Removal of gluten, lectins, and other potentially inflammatory proteins from grains and legumes reduces intestinal permeability and systemic immune activation. High intake of polyphenols, carotenoids, and other phytonutrients activates Nrf2 pathways and inhibits NF-kB signaling, reducing production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Mindful Eating
Mindful Eating's emphasis on whole, minimally processed foods rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds directly combats chronic inflammation. By focusing on fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, the diet provides powerful nutrients that reduce inflammatory markers and support cellular health.
Key foods: Leafy green vegetables, berries, fatty fish like salmon, turmeric, ginger, extra virgin olive oil, chia seeds, walnuts
How does Mindful Eating assist with Chronic Inflammation: The diet reduces inflammatory triggers by eliminating processed foods and added sugars while introducing nutrient-dense, whole foods. Phytochemicals and omega-3 fatty acids work to suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines and support the body's natural anti-inflammatory responses.
Engine 2 Diet
The Engine 2 Diet's whole food, plant-based approach provides powerful anti-inflammatory nutrients that combat systemic inflammation. By eliminating inflammatory animal products and processed foods, the diet supports the body's natural healing processes.
Key foods: Turmeric, ginger, berries, leafy greens, chia seeds, flaxseeds, walnuts
How does Engine 2 Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: Plant-based diets reduce inflammation by providing high levels of antioxidants, phytonutrients, and omega-3 fatty acids. The elimination of pro-inflammatory animal products and processed foods helps reduce inflammatory markers and supports cellular health.
Neanderthal Diet
The Neanderthal Diet is specifically designed to combat chronic inflammation by removing processed foods, refined sugars, and potential inflammatory food groups. Its emphasis on anti-inflammatory whole foods helps reduce inflammatory markers and support overall cellular health.
Key foods: Wild-caught mackerel, grass-fed lamb, avocados, extra virgin olive oil, turmeric, ginger, leafy greens, mixed berries
How does Neanderthal Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: By eliminating pro-inflammatory foods and emphasizing nutrient-dense, whole foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, the diet directly reduces inflammatory cytokines and supports the body's natural anti-inflammatory processes.
Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean Diet is renowned for its powerful anti-inflammatory effects, consistently reducing markers like C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). The abundance of antioxidants, polyphenols, and omega-3 fatty acids work together to suppress inflammatory pathways and oxidative stress. This anti-inflammatory effect is fundamental to the diet's benefits across numerous chronic diseases.
Key foods: Extra virgin olive oil, fatty fish like salmon and sardines, walnuts, leafy greens like spinach and Swiss chard, tomatoes, berries like blueberries and strawberries, herbs like rosemary and oregano, garlic
How does Mediterranean Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: Oleocanthal and other polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil act similarly to ibuprofen by inhibiting COX enzymes that produce inflammatory prostaglandins. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish are converted into resolvins and protectins, specialized molecules that actively resolve inflammation and prevent chronic inflammatory states. Antioxidants from colorful vegetables and fruits neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which otherwise triggers and perpetuates inflammatory cascades.
80/20 Diet
The 80/20 diet emphasizes nutrient-dense whole foods that are naturally anti-inflammatory, reducing systemic inflammation through carefully selected ingredients. By prioritizing whole foods and minimizing processed ingredients, the diet helps regulate inflammatory markers and supports the body's natural healing processes.
Key foods: Leafy green vegetables, fatty fish like salmon, turmeric, extra virgin olive oil, berries, nuts and seeds, avocados
How does 80/20 Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: The high proportion of anti-inflammatory foods provides abundant antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids that directly suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines. The diet's emphasis on whole foods reduces oxidative stress and supports the body's natural anti-inflammatory response mechanisms.
Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting powerfully reduces systemic inflammation by decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress, and inflammatory markers like CRP, IL-6, and TNF-alpha. The fasting periods activate cellular stress resistance pathways and autophagy, which clear damaged proteins and cellular debris that contribute to inflammation. Combined with anti-inflammatory whole foods during eating windows, IF provides comprehensive inflammation reduction.
Key foods: Fatty fish like salmon and sardines, leafy greens like kale and collard greens, berries like blueberries and blackberries, nuts like walnuts and pecans, seeds like flaxseeds and chia seeds, olive oil, turmeric-spiced legumes, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower
How does Intermittent Fasting assist with Chronic Inflammation: Extended fasting periods reduce the production of monocytes in the blood, which are key drivers of inflammation. Fasting also activates autophagy, a cellular recycling process that removes damaged mitochondria and proteins that would otherwise trigger inflammatory responses. The metabolic switch to ketone production during fasting provides anti-inflammatory signaling molecules that directly suppress inflammatory pathways including the NLRP3 inflammasome.
Stone Age Diet
By eliminating processed foods, grains, and refined sugars, the Paleo diet dramatically reduces inflammatory markers in the body. The diet emphasizes anti-inflammatory foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and phytonutrients that actively combat chronic inflammation.
Key foods: Wild-caught fatty fish, grass-fed meats, avocados, olive oil, berries, leafy greens, turmeric, walnuts
How does Stone Age Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: The diet reduces inflammatory triggers by eliminating processed carbohydrates and inflammatory food groups. It simultaneously introduces high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, and antioxidants that directly suppress inflammatory pathways and reduce systemic inflammation markers.
Cave Man Diet
The Paleo diet is specifically designed to reduce chronic inflammation by eliminating processed foods, refined sugars, and potential inflammatory agents. It emphasizes anti-inflammatory foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and nutrient-dense whole foods that support natural healing processes.
Key foods: Wild-caught salmon, grass-fed beef, olive oil, berries, leafy greens, turmeric, ginger, walnuts
How does Cave Man Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: By removing pro-inflammatory foods and introducing high-antioxidant, nutrient-dense alternatives, the diet reduces oxidative stress and inflammatory markers. The emphasis on omega-3 fatty acids and polyphenol-rich foods helps suppress inflammatory pathways and support cellular health.
Autoimmune Protocol (AIP)
The AIP diet is extremely effective at reducing systemic inflammation by eliminating pro-inflammatory foods and emphasizing nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory alternatives. It provides a comprehensive approach to calming the body's inflammatory responses.
Key foods: Wild-caught salmon, grass-fed beef, organ meats, turmeric, ginger, coconut oil, avocados, fermented vegetables
How does Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) assist with Chronic Inflammation: The diet reduces inflammation through multiple pathways: eliminating inflammatory food triggers, providing high-antioxidant foods, supporting gut healing, and introducing nutrients that directly modulate inflammatory responses at the cellular level.
Clean Eating
Clean eating eliminates processed foods and inflammatory ingredients, directly reducing systemic inflammation. The diet focuses on whole foods rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help modulate the body's inflammatory response.
Key foods: Wild-caught salmon, organic spinach, raw walnuts, turmeric, extra virgin olive oil, chia seeds, organic blueberries
How does Clean Eating assist with Chronic Inflammation: Whole foods contain natural phytonutrients that suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress. By eliminating processed foods with artificial additives, the diet minimizes inflammatory triggers and supports the body's natural healing mechanisms.
MIND Diet
The MIND diet is inherently anti-inflammatory, featuring foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, and antioxidants while eliminating pro-inflammatory processed foods, saturated fats, and refined sugars. The diet's emphasis on colorful berries, leafy greens, and olive oil provides powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce systemic inflammation markers. This anti-inflammatory effect underlies many of the diet's protective benefits against chronic diseases.
Key foods: Blueberries and strawberries, fatty fish like salmon and sardines, extra virgin olive oil, leafy greens like kale and arugula, walnuts, turmeric-spiced dishes with vegetables, beans and lentils, green tea
How does MIND Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: Omega-3 fatty acids from fish compete with omega-6 fatty acids in inflammatory pathways, reducing production of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids and cytokines like IL-6 and TNF-alpha. Polyphenols from berries and olive oil inhibit NF-kB activation, a key transcription factor in inflammatory responses. The diet's high antioxidant capacity neutralizes reactive oxygen species that trigger inflammatory cascades, while fiber from whole plant foods supports an anti-inflammatory gut microbiome composition.
Vegetarian Diet
Vegetarian diets are naturally anti-inflammatory, providing abundant antioxidants and eliminating pro-inflammatory animal proteins. The diet's focus on whole plant foods helps reduce systemic inflammation and support immune function.
Key foods: Turmeric, ginger, leafy greens, berries, chia seeds, walnuts, olive oil, green tea
How does Vegetarian Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: Plant-based foods contain powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that inhibit inflammatory pathways. The diet reduces inflammatory markers by providing omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and eliminating pro-inflammatory animal proteins.
Elimination Diet
The Elimination Diet dramatically reduces systemic inflammation by removing common inflammatory triggers like gluten, dairy, sugar, and processed foods while emphasizing anti-inflammatory whole foods. The diet is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and phytonutrients that actively combat inflammatory pathways. Many inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) and inflammatory cytokines decrease significantly on this protocol.
Key foods: Wild-caught salmon and sardines, blueberries and blackberries, leafy greens like spinach and arugula, broccoli and cauliflower, turmeric, olive oil, beets, flaxseeds
How does Elimination Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: The diet removes foods that trigger inflammatory cytokine production and increase intestinal permeability, which drives systemic inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish compete with omega-6 fatty acids in inflammatory pathways, producing anti-inflammatory mediators. Polyphenols and antioxidants from vegetables and fruits neutralize free radicals and inhibit NF-kB, a key inflammatory transcription factor.
Nordic Diet
The Nordic Diet powerfully reduces systemic inflammation through its abundance of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenol-rich berries, and cruciferous vegetables. Studies demonstrate significant reductions in inflammatory markers including CRP, IL-6, and TNF-alpha. The diet's exclusion of processed foods and emphasis on whole, plant-based foods creates a strongly anti-inflammatory dietary pattern.
Key foods: Fatty fish like salmon, herring, and mackerel, lingonberries, blueberries, cloudberries, cruciferous vegetables like cabbage and Brussels sprouts, rapeseed oil, fermented vegetables, rye
How does Nordic Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) from fatty fish are converted to specialized pro-resolving mediators that actively resolve inflammation and reduce pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Polyphenols and anthocyanins from berries inhibit NF-κB signaling pathways that drive inflammatory responses, while fiber from whole grains promotes anti-inflammatory gut bacteria and reduces endotoxin-mediated inflammation.
Plant-Based Diet
Plant-based diets reduce systemic inflammation by eliminating pro-inflammatory animal products while providing abundant anti-inflammatory compounds including polyphenols, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids. The diet can lower inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) by 30-40% within weeks. High fiber intake also reduces inflammation by promoting beneficial gut bacteria that produce anti-inflammatory metabolites.
Key foods: Berries (especially blueberries and strawberries), leafy greens like kale and spinach, walnuts and flaxseeds, turmeric and ginger, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, legumes, green tea, cherries and pomegranates
How does Plant-Based Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: Polyphenols and flavonoids from colorful plant foods inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes like COX-2 and reduce NF-kB activation, a key inflammatory pathway. Omega-3 fatty acids from walnuts and flaxseeds compete with omega-6 metabolism to produce less inflammatory eicosanoids. The diet's high antioxidant content neutralizes free radicals that trigger inflammatory cascades, while fiber promotes gut barrier integrity and reduces endotoxin-induced inflammation.
Vegan Diet
Vegan diets significantly reduce markers of systemic inflammation including C-reactive protein (CRP), IL-6, and TNF-alpha. By eliminating pro-inflammatory compounds found in animal products (like arachidonic acid, heme iron, and Neu5Gc) while providing abundant anti-inflammatory phytonutrients, the diet creates a favorable inflammatory environment. The improved gut microbiome diversity and reduced endotoxin exposure from plant-based eating further contribute to lower inflammatory burden.
Key foods: Turmeric and ginger, leafy greens like kale and collards, berries especially blueberries and strawberries, walnuts and flaxseeds (omega-3), extra virgin olive oil, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, green tea, tart cherries
How does Vegan Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: Plant foods are rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and carotenoids that inhibit pro-inflammatory pathways including NF-κB and COX-2 enzymes. The absence of arachidonic acid from animal products reduces substrate for pro-inflammatory eicosanoid production. High fiber intake promotes beneficial gut bacteria that produce anti-inflammatory short-chain fatty acids like butyrate, while reducing gut permeability and endotoxin-induced inflammation.
Zone Diet
The Zone Diet was specifically designed to reduce systemic inflammation by controlling insulin and eicosanoid production. By maintaining the 40-30-30 ratio and emphasizing anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids while limiting pro-inflammatory omega-6 fats and high-glycemic foods, the diet reduces inflammatory markers throughout the body. Research shows significant reductions in C-reactive protein, IL-6, and TNF-alpha levels.
Key foods: Wild-caught salmon, sardines, mackerel, olive oil, avocados, blueberries, strawberries, leafy greens like spinach and kale, walnuts
How does Zone Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: The diet modulates eicosanoid production by balancing omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratios and controlling insulin levels, which influence arachidonic acid metabolism. Low-glycemic carbohydrates prevent insulin spikes that trigger pro-inflammatory pathways. The abundant polyphenols from berries and vegetables, combined with omega-3 fatty acids, directly suppress NF-kB activation and reduce cytokine production.
Detox Diet
By eliminating inflammatory foods and focusing on anti-inflammatory whole foods, this diet helps reduce systemic inflammation. The emphasis on organic produce and elimination of processed foods minimizes inflammatory triggers and provides powerful anti-inflammatory nutrients.
Key foods: Leafy greens, turmeric, ginger, olive oil, avocado, wild-caught salmon, chia seeds, organic berries
How does Detox Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: The diet reduces inflammatory markers by providing high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and phytonutrients that suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines. The elimination of processed foods, refined sugars, and potential allergens further reduces inflammatory responses in the body.
Primal Blueprint
The Primal Blueprint diet is specifically designed to reduce inflammatory responses by eliminating pro-inflammatory foods and emphasizing nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory whole foods.
Key foods: Wild-caught salmon, grass-fed beef, extra virgin olive oil, turmeric, ginger, dark leafy greens, berries, nuts and seeds
How does Primal Blueprint assist with Chronic Inflammation: By removing inflammatory triggers like processed grains and industrial seed oils, the diet reduces systemic inflammation. The high intake of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and phytonutrients actively suppresses inflammatory pathways and supports immune system regulation.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet
This diet directly targets and reduces systemic inflammation by eliminating pro-inflammatory foods and emphasizing nutrient-dense, antioxidant-rich ingredients. The carefully selected foods work synergistically to modulate inflammatory pathways and reduce oxidative stress throughout the body.
Key foods: Fatty fish like salmon, turmeric, ginger, garlic, berries, leafy greens, extra virgin olive oil, walnuts and almonds
How does Anti-Inflammatory Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: The diet reduces inflammatory markers by providing high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, and antioxidants that inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathways. These compounds neutralize free radicals and suppress inflammatory gene expression.
Intuitive Eating
Intuitive Eating may help reduce chronic inflammation by removing dietary stress and promoting a balanced, varied approach to nutrition. By eliminating food rules and restrictions, the approach can help reduce stress-related inflammatory responses.
Key foods: Fatty fish, olive oil, berries, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, turmeric, ginger
How does Intuitive Eating assist with Chronic Inflammation: The stress reduction associated with non-restrictive eating can lower cortisol and inflammatory markers. By promoting a diverse diet without judgment, the approach supports the body's natural anti-inflammatory processes.
Gluten-Free Diet
For individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, a gluten-free diet significantly reduces systemic inflammation by eliminating the trigger for gut-mediated inflammatory responses. When properly implemented with emphasis on anti-inflammatory whole foods rather than processed gluten-free alternatives, the diet can lower inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein and reduce overall inflammatory burden. However, benefits for chronic inflammation are most pronounced in those with documented gluten-related disorders rather than the general population.
Key foods: Anti-inflammatory foods like wild-caught salmon, sardines, leafy greens, berries, walnuts, olive oil, turmeric, ginger, green tea
How does Gluten-Free Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: In gluten-sensitive individuals, gluten triggers intestinal inflammation and increased permeability, allowing inflammatory molecules and bacterial endotoxins to enter circulation and activate systemic immune responses. Removing gluten reduces gut inflammation, restores barrier integrity, and decreases the translocation of pro-inflammatory compounds into the bloodstream, thereby lowering systemic inflammatory markers and reducing chronic inflammatory processes throughout the body.
South Beach Diet
The South Beach Diet reduces chronic inflammation through its emphasis on anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats, antioxidant-rich vegetables, and elimination of pro-inflammatory refined carbohydrates and processed foods. The diet has been shown to reduce inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein and interleukin-6. The abundance of phytonutrients from vegetables and healthy fats creates a favorable anti-inflammatory environment.
Key foods: Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel, extra virgin olive oil, leafy greens like kale and arugula, berries (Phase 2+), walnuts and almonds, avocados, legumes, turmeric-spiced dishes
How does South Beach Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: Omega-3 fatty acids from fish are converted to anti-inflammatory eicosanoids and specialized pro-resolving mediators that actively resolve inflammation. Monounsaturated fats from olive oil contain oleocanthal, which has anti-inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen. The elimination of refined carbohydrates prevents the production of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and reduces oxidative stress, while the high antioxidant content from vegetables neutralizes free radicals and reduces inflammatory signaling.
Raw Food Diet
The Raw Food Diet is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, antioxidants, and phytonutrients that remain intact without heat degradation. The diet eliminates processed foods, refined sugars, and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) formed during cooking, all of which contribute to systemic inflammation. The alkalizing effect of abundant raw vegetables and fruits may help reduce inflammatory markers.
Key foods: Raw leafy greens, raw berries, raw turmeric root, raw ginger, walnuts, flaxseeds, raw broccoli, cold-pressed olive oil
How does Raw Food Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: Raw plant foods contain high levels of polyphenols, flavonoids, and antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene that neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammatory cytokine production. The absence of cooking prevents the formation of pro-inflammatory AGEs and preserves heat-sensitive anti-inflammatory compounds like sulforaphane in cruciferous vegetables.
Mayo Clinic Diet
The Mayo Clinic Diet's whole-food approach provides powerful anti-inflammatory nutrients that help reduce systemic inflammation. By eliminating processed foods and emphasizing plant-based, nutrient-dense options, it supports the body's natural healing processes.
Key foods: Fatty fish, olive oil, berries, leafy greens, nuts, turmeric, ginger, avocados
How does Mayo Clinic Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: Omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, and antioxidants in the diet directly suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines and support the body's inflammatory response regulation. The elimination of processed foods further reduces inflammatory triggers.
Nutrisystem
Nutrisystem's emphasis on whole foods, omega-3 rich fish, and elimination of refined sugars and processed foods helps reduce systemic inflammation. The diet's high fiber content supports a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a crucial role in regulating inflammation throughout the body. The antioxidants from vegetables and the anti-inflammatory properties of lean proteins and healthy fats work synergistically to lower inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein.
Key foods: Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, leafy greens like spinach and kale, legumes (lentils and black beans), non-starchy vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers, quinoa, oats, olive oil, turkey
How does Nutrisystem assist with Chronic Inflammation: Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) from fish are converted into anti-inflammatory mediators (resolvins and protectins) that actively resolve inflammation. The elimination of refined sugars and processed foods removes pro-inflammatory dietary triggers that activate NF-κB pathways. High fiber intake promotes beneficial gut bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids (particularly butyrate), which have systemic anti-inflammatory effects and strengthen the gut barrier to prevent inflammatory endotoxin leakage.
Alkaline Diet
The Alkaline Diet emphasizes anti-inflammatory plant foods rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients while eliminating processed foods and animal products that may promote inflammation. The high intake of leafy greens, vegetables, and fruits provides polyphenols and antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammatory markers. The elimination of refined sugars, processed foods, and excessive animal proteins removes common dietary triggers of systemic inflammation.
Key foods: Leafy greens like spinach and kale, broccoli, celery, cucumbers, lemons and limes, avocados, almonds, chia seeds
How does Alkaline Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: Plant-based alkaline foods are rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, and phytonutrients that modulate inflammatory pathways by reducing oxidative stress and inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and TNF-alpha. The high potassium and magnesium content in these foods helps regulate cellular pH balance and reduces metabolic acidosis, which is associated with inflammatory responses. The elimination of processed foods removes advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and trans fats that directly trigger inflammatory cascades.
Whole30
Whole30 eliminates major inflammatory foods including refined sugars, processed oils, grains, and dairy while emphasizing anti-inflammatory whole foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. The absence of added sugars prevents glycation and insulin spikes that drive inflammatory processes. The diet's focus on whole, unprocessed foods provides a high density of anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce systemic inflammation markers.
Key foods: Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, walnuts, leafy greens like Swiss chard and collards, colorful vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes, berries including blueberries and strawberries, turmeric and ginger, avocados, extra virgin olive oil
How does Whole30 assist with Chronic Inflammation: The elimination of processed foods, added sugars, and refined oils removes sources of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids. Meanwhile, the high intake of omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, and antioxidants from whole foods helps reduce inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), shifting the body toward an anti-inflammatory state.
Low-Carb Diet
Low-carb diets reduce systemic inflammation by eliminating refined carbohydrates and sugars that trigger inflammatory pathways. The diet's emphasis on omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidant-rich vegetables, and anti-inflammatory fats helps lower inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP), IL-6, and TNF-alpha. Improved insulin sensitivity and reduced oxidative stress further contribute to anti-inflammatory effects.
Key foods: Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, olive oil, leafy greens like kale, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, avocados, walnuts, turmeric-seasoned proteins, berries in moderation
How does Low-Carb Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: Eliminating high-glycemic carbohydrates reduces postprandial glucose spikes and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that trigger inflammatory responses. The high omega-3 content from fish provides EPA and DHA, which are converted to anti-inflammatory resolvins and protectins. Lower insulin levels reduce pro-inflammatory cytokine production, while ketone bodies themselves have direct anti-inflammatory signaling properties.
Macro Diet
The Macro Diet's emphasis on whole, nutrient-dense foods provides anti-inflammatory nutrients while maintaining a balanced macronutrient profile. The diet supports reduced inflammatory markers through strategic food choices.
Key foods: Fatty fish, turmeric, ginger, berries, leafy greens, olive oil, nuts, seeds
How does Macro Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: By prioritizing whole foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds, the diet helps modulate inflammatory responses and support cellular health.
Ketogenic Diet
The ketogenic diet significantly reduces systemic inflammation by eliminating pro-inflammatory processed carbohydrates and sugars while emphasizing anti-inflammatory fats and whole foods. Ketone bodies themselves have anti-inflammatory properties, particularly beta-hydroxybutyrate which inhibits inflammatory pathways. Studies show marked reductions in inflammatory markers like CRP, IL-6, and TNF-alpha.
Key foods: Fatty fish like salmon and sardines, olive oil, avocados, leafy greens like spinach and kale, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, nuts like walnuts, turmeric (used in cooking), eggs
How does Ketogenic Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), the primary ketone body, directly inhibits the NLRP3 inflammasome, a key component of the inflammatory response. The diet eliminates high-glycemic carbohydrates that trigger inflammatory insulin spikes and reduces oxidative stress. The high intake of omega-3 fatty acids from fish and the absence of inflammatory seed oils further contribute to reduced production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and eicosanoids.
DASH Diet
The DASH diet provides significant anti-inflammatory benefits through its abundance of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids from fish, and minimal processed foods. Studies show reductions in inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in individuals following the DASH pattern. The diet's emphasis on whole foods and avoidance of pro-inflammatory ingredients creates a favorable inflammatory profile.
Key foods: Fatty fish like wild salmon and sardines, berries especially strawberries and blackberries, leafy greens like kale and Swiss chard, turmeric and ginger, walnuts and flaxseeds, extra virgin olive oil, tomatoes, green tea
How does DASH Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: Polyphenols and flavonoids from colorful fruits and vegetables act as potent antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, a key driver of inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) from fish are converted into specialized pro-resolving mediators that actively resolve inflammatory processes. The low saturated fat and absence of trans fats prevent activation of inflammatory pathways like NF-κB.
Atkins Diet
The Atkins Diet reduces systemic inflammation by eliminating refined carbohydrates and sugars that promote inflammatory pathways, while emphasizing anti-inflammatory fats and proteins. Studies show reductions in inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP), IL-6, and TNF-alpha. The diet's emphasis on omega-3 rich foods and elimination of inflammatory seed oils further supports this anti-inflammatory effect.
Key foods: Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel and sardines, grass-fed beef, pasture-raised eggs, olive oil, avocados, leafy greens, walnuts, turmeric-seasoned meats
How does Atkins Diet assist with Chronic Inflammation: Refined carbohydrates and sugars activate inflammatory pathways through multiple mechanisms including oxidative stress, advanced glycation end products (AGEs), and NF-κB activation. By eliminating these foods and stabilizing blood glucose and insulin, the diet reduces inflammatory signaling. Additionally, the high intake of omega-3 fatty acids from fish produces anti-inflammatory resolvins and protectins, while stable ketone production has inherent anti-inflammatory properties.
Canine Cooking
By focusing on anti-inflammatory ingredients and eliminating processed foods, this diet helps reduce systemic inflammation in dogs. The balanced mix of lean proteins, omega-3 rich foods, and antioxidant-packed vegetables supports the body's natural anti-inflammatory processes.
Key foods: Fatty fish, blueberries, sweet potato, green beans, organ meats, fish oil
How does Canine Cooking assist with Chronic Inflammation: Omega-3 fatty acids from fish and fish oil help reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines and balance the inflammatory response. Antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries neutralize free radicals and support cellular health, further mitigating chronic inflammation.
Jenny Craig
Jenny Craig's emphasis on whole foods, lean proteins, and abundant vegetables provides anti-inflammatory nutrients while limiting pro-inflammatory refined carbohydrates and excessive saturated fats. Weight loss achieved through this program significantly reduces systemic inflammation by decreasing visceral adipose tissue, which secretes inflammatory cytokines. The inclusion of omega-3 rich fish and antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables further supports anti-inflammatory processes.
Key foods: Salmon, mackerel, leafy greens like kale and spinach, berries, turmeric-spiced chicken, broccoli, walnuts, olive oil
How does Jenny Craig assist with Chronic Inflammation: Weight loss reduces visceral adipose tissue, which is a major source of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and TNF-alpha. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish compete with omega-6 fatty acids in inflammatory pathways, producing less inflammatory eicosanoids, while antioxidants from colorful vegetables and fruits neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress that drives inflammatory cascades.
Weight Watchers
Weight Watchers reduces chronic inflammation through weight loss and emphasis on anti-inflammatory whole foods while limiting pro-inflammatory processed foods and refined carbohydrates. The diet's abundance of vegetables, fruits, omega-3 rich fish, and nuts provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Weight loss itself significantly reduces inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein and IL-6 by decreasing adipose tissue-derived inflammatory cytokines.
Key foods: Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, leafy greens like kale and spinach, berries including blueberries and strawberries, walnuts, olive oil, tomatoes, turmeric-spiced dishes, green tea
How does Weight Watchers assist with Chronic Inflammation: Adipose tissue, particularly visceral fat, secretes pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α and IL-6; weight loss reduces this inflammatory burden. The diet's emphasis on omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols from fruits and vegetables, and monounsaturated fats provides substrates for anti-inflammatory eicosanoids and resolvins while reducing oxidative stress and NF-κB activation.