What we put into our bodies is just as important as the activities we do to stay fit. Many people are familiar with the idea that certain foods have medicinal properties, but did you know that there are special categories called medicinal foods?
Medical foods are specifically developed to help improve health outcomes for those suffering from specific medical conditions and health problems. From aiding digestion to reducing inflammation, here are seven medicinal foods that can help improve your health:
1. Gluten-free food
Eating even small amounts of gluten can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as fatigue, bloating and abdominal pain in people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Gluten-free foods are specifically designed to provide essential nutrition without this protein.
People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should always read labels and make sure any product they buy is certified gluten-free. Enterade Advanced Oncology is a great option for gluten-free nutritional support, and if you want to try it, drug discount cards and coupons like BuzzRx can help you save money.
2. Probiotics
Often found in yogurt and other fermented foods, probiotics are live microorganisms that can help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and may even support mental health. Probiotics can also help restore the natural balance of bacteria in your digestive system, which is essential for maintaining good health.
Probiotics effectively treat digestive problems associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. They can also help improve digestive health by reducing symptoms such as gas, bloating and constipation.
3. Keto foods
The ketogenic diet is gaining popularity due to its ability to help with weight loss and improve overall health. This diet is high in fat and low in carbohydrates, which forces the body to burn fat instead of carbohydrates for energy. A variety of keto-friendly products are now available to make this diet easier to follow.
Keto foods are specifically designed to provide the macronutrients needed to help you achieve your keto goals. These products usually contain healthy fats, such as coconut oil, olive oil and avocado oil; vegetables rich in fiber and low in carbohydrates; and lean proteins. Eating these foods can help you stay within your carb limit while providing essential nutrition to support overall health.
4. Soy food
Soy is a plant-based protein source that has been used as a dietary staple in Asia for centuries. Soy products, such as tofu and tempeh, are low in fat and high in fiber, vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients. A variety of soy-based products are also available, making it easy to include in your diet.
Research has shown that consuming soy foods can help reduce the risk of certain cancers, heart disease, and osteoporosis. Soy products are also useful for diabetics due to their low glycemic index and ability to regulate blood sugar levels.
5. Omega-3 foods
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats in certain foods with numerous health benefits. They are known to reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels and help protect the heart from disease. They can also help improve brain function and reduce the risk of depression.
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel, walnuts, flax seeds and chia seeds. Eating these foods can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is beneficial for those with chronic health conditions like arthritis or lupus.
6. Food rich in resistant starch
Resistant starch is a carbohydrate that is not broken down by the body, but instead passes through the digestive system to be used as an energy source. Foods rich in resistant starch can help lower blood sugar levels after a meal and help with weight control.
Eating foods rich in resistant starch can help improve digestion and reduce inflammation and cholesterol levels. It can also help you feel fuller for longer, aiding in weight loss. Foods high in resistant starch include legumes, cooked and cooled potatoes, bananas, oats and barley.
7. Turmeric
Turmeric is a powerful spice with anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body. Research has shown that it can be especially beneficial for those suffering from arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.
It is important to note that turmeric is not practical when consumed alone; you should take it with black pepper to increase its bioavailability. You can find turmeric supplements in capsules, powders, and liquid extracts at most health food stores.
Final Thoughts
Eating the right foods is not just about following a certain diet. It’s also important to be mindful of what you eat and how it can affect your health in the long run. Finding the right mix for your body can be difficult with so many different diets and food trends. But by focusing on nutrient-dense and therapeutic foods, you can be sure that the way you eat helps support your overall health.
