Spice it up:
Most aromatic spices, such as ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, fennel and clove can improve how well you digest your food and tend to be anti-inflammatory. Many spices, especially cinnamon, are well known for blood glucose lowering effects. Add them to desserts, or along side in a cup of tea!
In excess, alcohol can really deplete your antioxidant pathways and contribute to inflammation. If you have systemic inflammation or leaky gut, drinking alcohol can stand in the way of your best efforts to repair that. So if you’re going to enjoy a drink or two, try some of these tips:
Love your Liver
If you drink enough to feel inebriated or you feel yucky in the morning, it’s a good bet that your drinking has caused inflammation. Supporting your liver with milk thistle can be a good place to start. Milk thistle is well known for it’s hepato-protective effects. Simply put, it can help you process alcohol better, protecting your liver from oxidative stress. And, it can potentially can reduce hangovers. Pop a couple capsules before going to a party, and then again afterward. It’s generally safe for everyone, but if you’re on any medications, check with your doctor.
Aromatic spices tend to enhance digestion, reducing the tendency for post-meal gas and bloating. Most of the aromatics are also anti-inflammatory and have some blood sugar lowering effect. Chai tea is the quintessential aromatic blend. There are a number of decaf and sugar-free chai blends available, and include herbs like cinnamon, cardamon, clove, fennel, orange peel, turmeric, and ginger.