Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (263 page)

Fresh pineapple between meals. The core of pineapple contains the anti-inflammatory enzyme bromelain. This has its best effect if eaten separately from other foods.

Anti-inflammatory essential fats. Good sources include oily fish, hemp seeds, flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and cold-pressed oils.

Water: eight glasses a day. Fluids take healing nutrients to the cells where they are needed and remove waste products.

AVOID

Inflammatory foods. These include sugar, refined carbohydrates, additives, dairy products, fatty or processed meats, and anything to which you are intolerant.

HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Anti-inflammatory herbs include chamomile, meadowsweet, white willow bark, fennel, and yellow dock.

Vitamin C with bioflavanoids has anti-inflammatory properties and can aid healing.

Zinc is also vital for proper immune function and healing.

EXTRA TIPS

Elevate the inflamed area, apply a cold compress, and rest it. This can help to reduce inflammation and speed healing.

INFLUENZA

Influenza or “flu” is caused by a viral infection. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, headaches, aches, and pains, feeling hot and cold, coughing and sneezing, and general weakness.

CAUSES

The flu virus can be spread by being in contact with an infected person. Susceptibility may be increased by having a compromised immune system, stress, and lack of sleep. The very old and very young may also be more susceptible.

Action plan

Take the time to take care of yourself and focus on getting back to full strength.

EAT/DRINK

Fluids. Warm drinks are better than cold, as cold drinks will need to be warmed up to body temperature by the digestive system and this can use up vital energy reserves. Warm water, freshly pressed fruit and vegetable juices, herbal teas, and broths are all recommended to replace fluids lost through sweating. Avoid orange juice, as it can increase mucus production.

Vegetable juices and broths, soups, and fresh fruit.