Unlocking the Power of Fruit: The Colorful Way to Fight Inflammation

Happy New Year! Four years ago this month, I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). My first response to my doctor was, “How can we treat this holistically?” Well, there is no cure for RA, but remission of symptoms is more likely when treatment begins early with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs.

While a diet won’t cure rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the right food choices can help control inflammation that can wreak havoc in your body and damage cells, tissues, and organs. My goal was to add nutrients to my body to help maintain a healthy weight and reduce inflammation. Ever heard of phytochemicals? They’re like nature’s superheroes, fighting inflammation and promoting good health.

According to research, diets containing certain nutrients and phytochemicals are linked to a lower risk of inflammation. One way to cool the effects of inflammation is with a rainbow of delicious fruits that taste amazing and bring many health benefits.

Berries: Bursting with Goodness! Think of berries as little gems of health. From strawberries to blueberries, they’re packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory magic. Studies show they can also lower the risk of heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes. So, grab a handful and snack your way to a healthier you!

An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away – Really! Turns out the saying about apples isn’t just a rhyme. Research suggests that apples and their cousin pears can lower the risk of heart disease. These fruits are rich in fiber, vitamin C, pectin, and polyphenols, all teaming up to fight inflammation and boost your gut health.

Stone Fruits: Cherries to the Rescue! Cherries, peaches, apricots, and plums – these stone fruits aren’t just tasty; they’re inflammation-fighting powerhouses. Cherries may ease post-exercise soreness and reduce the risk of gout attacks. The secret? Phenolic compounds and other benefits that tackle inflammation head-on.

Citrus: A Citrus Squeeze for Health! Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes – these citrus wonders are loaded with vitamin C, fiber, and anti-inflammatory magic.

Pomegranates: Tiny Seeds, Big Benefits! Don’t underestimate those tiny pomegranate seeds! Packed with vitamins C and K, potassium, and potent phytochemicals, they’re the key to potential health perks. Embrace the crunch and savor the benefits of these juicy little wonders.

Grapes: More Than Just a Snack! Grapes aren’t just succulent – they’re a fiber-packed, vitamin-loaded treat. Dive into a bunch of grapes, where you’ll find a delicious snack and a source of powerful phytochemicals that can contribute to your overall well-being.

Embrace all the colors of the rainbow by adding a colorful palette to your plate to experience the anti-inflammatory effects of the fruit. Eating with the seasons is a great way to get enough fruit. For example, grapes and stone fruits in the summer, apples and pears in the fall, persimmons and pomegranates in the winter, and citrus and cherries in the spring.

Please reach out if you want more information, a shopping list, or recipes on anti-inflammatory foods. Beyond fruit, there are expansive choices of proteins, vegetables, grains, oils, and herbs to aid in reducing inflammation.

“A mind that is stretched by a new experience will never go back to its original dimensions.”

 – Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr.

Sparkling Citrus Pomegranate Mocktail
Based on the recipe from One Lovely Life

January is often a time to do a reset, whether through new habits, ditching bad ones, or doing a reset. This recipe is delicious, refreshing, and perfect for dry January!

FOR 1 POMEGRANATE MOCKTAIL:

• 2 oz. 100% pomegranate juice
• 1 oz. freshly squeezed orange juice or high-quality orange juice
• 1/2 oz. fresh lime juice
• 2 oz. sparkling water, club soda, or seltzer*
• Ice, for serving

Garnishes (Optional):

• pomegranate arils, lime slices or orange slices, frozen cranberries, fresh mint, or fresh rosemary

FOR A PITCHER (1 QUART):

• 12 oz. pomegranate juice
• 6 oz. orange juice
• 3 oz. fresh lime juice
• 12 ounces sparkling water or seltzer*