Anti-Inflammatory Superfoods to Add to Your Shopping List

41. Natto: The Vitamin K2 Champion

This fermented soybean dish, a staple in Japanese cuisine, may have a pungent aroma and sticky texture, but it boasts an impressive array of health benefits. Natto is particularly rich in vitamin K2, a nutrient that plays a vital role in bone health and cardiovascular function. But natto's most unique feature is its high concentration of nattokinase, an enzyme produced during the fermentation process. Nattokinase has demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory and fibrinolytic properties. Fibrinolysis is the process of breaking down blood clots, which can contribute to inflammation and cardiovascular disease. Studies suggest that nattokinase can help to reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and lower the risk of blood clots, making natto a valuable food for promoting both circulatory and overall health.

42. Arugula: The Peppery Leafy Green

This peppery leafy green, also known as rocket, is more than just a flavorful addition to salads. Arugula is packed with a variety of health-promoting compounds, including glucosinolates. These natural compounds, also found in other cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale, break down into substances with potent anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. Arugula is also a good source of nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide helps to relax blood vessels, improve blood flow, and lower blood pressure. By supporting healthy circulation, arugula may indirectly contribute to reducing inflammation and protecting against cardiovascular disease. Enjoy arugula in salads, use it as a base for pesto, or add it to pizzas and sandwiches for a peppery kick.