What we put into our body 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 there are special categories called medical foods?
Medical foods have been developed specifically to help improve health outcomes for those suffering from specific medical conditions and health problems. From aiding digestion to reducing inflammation, here are seven medical foods that may help improve your health:
1. Gluten-Free Foods
Eating even a tiny amount of gluten can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as fatigue, bloating, and abdominal pain for 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 be sure any product they purchase is certified as gluten-free. Enterade Advanced Oncology is an excellent 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 yogurts 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 to restore the natural balance of bacteria in your digestive system, which is essential for maintaining good health.
Probiotics effectively treat digestive problems related to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. They can also help to improve digestive health by reducing symptoms such as gas, bloating, and constipation.
3. Keto Foods
The ketogenic diet is becoming increasingly popular for its ability to help with weight loss and improve overall health. This diet is high in fats and low in carbohydrates, which forces the body to burn fat instead of carbs for energy. And 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 meet your keto goals. These products usually contain healthy fats, such as coconut oil, olive oil, and avocado oil; high-fiber, low-carb vegetables; and lean proteins. Eating these foods can help you stay within your carb limit while providing essential nutrition to support overall health.
4. Soy Foods
Soy is a plant-based source of protein that has been used for centuries as a dietary staple in Asia. Soy products, such as tofu and tempeh, are low in fat and high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. And there are a variety of soy-based products available, making it easy to incorporate into your diet.
Studies have found that consuming soy foods can help reduce the risk of certain cancers, heart disease, and osteoporosis. Soy products are also beneficial for those with diabetes 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’re known to reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and help protect the heart from disease. And they can also help to improve brain function and reduce the risk of depression.
Foods high in omega-3 include oily fish such as salmon and mackerel, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds. Eating these foods can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which is beneficial for those with chronic health conditions like arthritis or lupus.
6. Foods Rich in Resistant Starch
Resistant starch is a carbohydrate that’s not broken down by the body but instead passes through the digestive system to be used as a source of energy. Foods high in resistant starch can help reduce blood sugar levels after meals and assist with weight management.
Eating foods rich in resistant starch can help improve digestion and reduce inflammation and cholesterol levels. It may also help you feel fuller for longer, aiding 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. Studies have found it can be especially beneficial for those suffering from arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.
It’s important to note that turmeric isn’t 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 isn’t just about following a specific diet. It’s also important to be mindful of what you eat and how it can impact your health in the long run. Finding the right mix for your body can be tricky with many different diets and eating trends. But by focusing on nutrient-dense and therapeutic foods, you can make sure the way you eat is helping to support your overall health.
