A Quick Natural Energy Boosting Tip

There is a school of thought in the scientific community that chronic low level inflammation may be the cause of almost all age related diseases and declines.

Dr. Andrew Weil has even developed what he calls 'The Inflammation Diet,' which is not a "diet" in the traditional sense but rather a group of foods, supplements, and lifestyle changes that have been shown to combat chronic inflammation and the age related diseases it causes. There are a number of excellent foods and herbal supplements for combating inflammation that can be taken on a daily basis:

• Omega 3 Supplement High in DHA - Chronic systemic inflammation is an underlying cause of many seemingly unrelated, age-related diseases. As humans grow older, systemic inflammation can inflict devastating degenerative effects throughout the body. Aging results in an increase of inflammatory cytokines (destructive cell-signaling chemicals) that contribute to the progression of many degenerative diseases. The predominant fatty acid in the brain, nervous system and retina of humans is DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid. DHA has been scientifically proven to be one of the most effective natural remedies for chronic inflammation and improving the body's inflammatory response. Look for a quality fish oil or krill or supplement high in the essential fatty acid - DHA. Of the two essential fatty acid's in Omega 3 supplements (EPA and DHA), DHA has been shown to be responsible for the majority of the supplements health benefits. Be sure to get a good pharmaceutical-grade brand of fish oils; otherwise you could be doing yourself more harm than good.

• Gamma-Linolenic Acid ("GLA") - is an essential fatty acid found primarily in vegetable oils. As a dietary supplement, it is used for treating problems with inflammation and autoimmune diseases. Borage seeds (Borago officinalis) are the highest-potency source of GLA available. I recommend Jarrow Formulas Borage GLA-240 + Gamma Tocopherol (a form of Vitamin E) as a good supplement to your daily food intake.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil - use for cooking and dressings instead of margarines and other products containing high fructose syrups or hydrogenated oils. Both will increase inflammation.

• Raw Extra Virgin Coconut Oil -a 2004 study published in the journal Clinical Biochemistry found that coconut oil, especially virgin coconut oil, reduced the LDL cholesterol associated with cardiovascular disease, while raising beneficial HDL levels. I use the Nutiva® brand Extra Virgin Coconut Oil for almost all cooking needs.

It is also important to limit the intake of foods that convert to arachidonic acid, which contributes to inflammation. To do this, reduce saturated animal fats by consuming fewer dairy products, less red meat, and fewer processed meats like ham, bacon, and bologna, and hydrogenated fats.