Chronic inflammation is a condition which triggers many other diseases like arthritis and atherosclerosis.  It can be prevented by common anti-inflammatory drugs. However, prolonged use of these pharmaceutical products can cause side effects which are equally detrimental to your health.

But chronic inflammation can be prevented without the use of synthetic drugs.  There are lots of natural foods which contain anti-inflammatory properties which are capable of suppressing the development of inflammation while they provide you with good nutrition.

Here are the top 10 foods with anti-inflammatory properties:

1. Kelp

Kelp contains a potent anti-inflammatory substance called fucoidan.  Fucoidans are one of the largest known molecular sugars.  They help to protect you from degenerative diseases such as cancer, diabetes, atherosclerosis and heart ailments.

2. Avocados

Avocados are rich in many different compounds that help to prevent inflammation.  These are polyhydroxylated fatty alcohols, carotenoids, omega-3 fatty acids and phytosterols.

3. Wild Alaskan Salmon, Sardines, Mackerel and Anchovies

These fishes are rich in omega-3 fatty acids are known for known for their anti-inflammatory properties.  Omega-3 is also an effective agent in the prevention and treatment of inflammatory diseases which include heart ailments, autoimmune disorders and Alzheimer’s disease.

4. Turmeric

Turmeric contains a powerful anti-inflammatory substance called curcumin. Both herbal and nutrition experts believe that curcumin is better than synthetic over the counter anti-inflammatory drugs.

5. Cherry Juice

Cherry juice is a potent fighter against inflammation because it contains anthocyanins, a powerful anti-inflammatory substance.  According to recent studies, cherry juice has the ability to protect your cells from free radical damage.

The Arthritis foundation also said that the regular consumption of cherry juice has the capability to alleviate arthritis.

6. Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

Extra-virgin olive oil is rich in alpha-linolenic acid, a type of omega-3 which is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent.  You should eat extra-virgin olive oil without cooking it in order to get its maximum anti-inflammatory potentials.

7. Ginger

Ginger has been used in Asia for centuries both as an anti-inflammatory and a pain reliever.  Many people also use ginger to alleviate arthritis and many of its symptoms.

8. Garlic

Garlic has been considered an anti-inflammatory food because of its sulfur compounds which help to reduce inflammation and pain.

9. Blueberries

Blueberries are capable of preventing inflammation because they contain a powerful anti-inflammatory compound called anthocyanins.

10. Papaya

Papain and chymopapain are anti-inflammatory enzymes that can be found in the papaya fruit.  Papayas are also loaded with vitamins C and E which are powerful antioxidants that help to prevent inflammation.