21 Day Anti Inflammatory Diet Plan – Overview
Imagine a world where you wake up feeling energized, your mind is sharp, and your body is free from chronic inflammation. This is the world an anti-inflammatory diet can offer. An anti-inflammatory diet is a way of eating that focuses on consuming whole, nutrient-dense foods that work to reduce chronic inflammation in the body.
This type of diet is becoming increasingly popular as it’s been linked to lowering the risk of developing chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
The 21-day anti-inflammatory diet plan is a great way to kickstart your journey toward better health. It’s a comprehensive plan that includes a detailed meal plan to help you make healthy eating a sustainable part of your lifestyle.
How Does 21 Day Anti-Inflammatory Diet Combat Inflammation?
Watch the 21 Day Anti Inflammatory Diet Plan Video
In order to combat inflammation in the body, an anti-inflammatory diet is recommended.
What is an Anti Inflammatory Diet?
An anti-inflammatory diet is a dietary pattern that emphasizes the consumption of foods that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, and limits or eliminates those that have pro-inflammatory effects.
The human body is constantly exposed to environmental toxins, processed foods, chronic stress, and lifestyle factors, which can lead to chronic inflammation.
Chronic inflammation describes a state where the body’s immune system is in a state of constant activation, leading to the production of pro-inflammatory molecules such as cytokines and chemokines (1), which further results in the development of various diseases including:
- Cancer,
- Metabolic disease,
- Cardiovascular disease,
- Autoimmune diseases,
- Neurological diseases,
- Respiratory diseases,
- Gastrointestinal diseases,
- Skin disorders (2).
21 Day Anti-inflammatory diet is believed to play a role in reducing chronic inflammation by providing the body with the necessary nutrients to support optimal health and minimizing the intake of foods that may promote inflammation. The 21 day anti-inflammatory diet typically includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods, such as:
21 Day Anti Inflammatory Diet Plan
- Fruits: Berries, cherries, and citrus fruits are high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Vegetables: Plant based foods such as leafy greens, broccoli, and bell peppers are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Whole grains: Whole grains such as oats, quinoa, brown rice, and barley are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals and have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Healthy fats: Foods such as nuts, seeds, olive oil, avocado, and fatty fish (such as salmon and sardines) are high in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids.
- Lean proteins: Foods such as fish, chicken, turkey, and tofu are good sources of lean protein, which can help to reduce inflammation.
- Herbs and spices: Spices such as ginger, turmeric, garlic, and cinnamon have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds.
- Olive oil and avocado oil.
It is also recommended to drink enough water, herbal teas, and other fluids to keep the body hydrated. The anti-inflammatory diet limits the intake of processed foods, refined sugars, and saturated and trans fats, which have been linked to inflammation and chronic disease.
Processed foods are high in added sugars, unhealthy fats and salt, and refined carbohydrates, which can contribute to chronic inflammation. Other variables, such as regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep, may also assist in decreasing inflammation as they are the risk factors for inflammation (3)
The Significance of an Anti-Inflammatory Diet in Disease Prevention
It is important to note that the anti-inflammatory diet is not a specific diet plan but rather a way of eating that emphasizes nutrient-dense foods, and limits those that may contribute to inflammation.
However, there are different variations of an anti-inflammatory diet, such as the Mediterranean, plant-based, ketogenic, DASH, and AIP diets, etc., depending on the specific dietary approach or the individual’s dietary needs.
Mediterranean-style anti-inflammatory diet
Some individuals may follow a Mediterranean-style anti-inflammatory diet, which emphasizes whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats, such as olive oil. It also includes a moderate intake of fish and seafood, and a low intake of red meat and processed foods.
Studies reveal that healthy Mediterranean diet food choices can prevent over 80% of cardiac disease, 70% of strokes, and 90% of type 2 diabetes when combined with regular physical exercise and avoiding smoking. (4)
DASH Diet-style anti-inflammatory diet
Similarly, another diet pattern, the DASH Diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), is focused on reducing blood pressure and promoting heart health through an emphasis on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. It also limits saturated and trans fats, sugar, and salt.
It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers have found that combining the DASH and Mediterranean diets (called the MIND DIET) lowered the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by 53% in people who followed the diet carefully. (5)
Plant-based-style anti-inflammatory diet
While some may rely on a plant-based anti-inflammatory diet, which emphasizes whole, plant-based foods and eliminates animal products. According to research, plant-based diets minimize the chance of developing chronic diseases, the need for medication, and the risk of heart disease. (6)
Low-carb (ketogenic)-style anti-inflammatory diet
Low-carb (ketogenic), anti-inflammatory diet emphasizes healthy fats, lean proteins, and low carbohydrate intake. Reducing carbs appears to benefit the nervous system and inflammatory biomarkers. (7)
Autoimmune protocol diet style anti-inflammatory diet
The Autoimmune Protocol Diet (AIP) is another diet that eliminates certain foods that are known to be inflammatory, such as grains, legumes, dairy, nightshades, and processed foods, and encourages the consumption of nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods like meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. As per the findings of research, AIP has shown to reduce the symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases. (8)
Similarly, an anti-inflammatory diet can help to reduce pain and inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis and improve cognitive function in older adults. (9) It may also help to reduce the risk of kidney disease by reducing inflammation in the body and providing the body with the nutrients it needs to support healthy kidney function (10).
An anti-inflammatory diet plan is particularly significant for individuals who are at risk of or are currently living with chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. These conditions are often linked to chronic inflammation in the body, and an anti-inflammatory diet can help to reduce this inflammation and lower the risk of these diseases.
It is important to consult with a registered dietitian or doctor before making any dietary changes, as different diets may have varying effects on health and may not be suitable for everyone.
10 Ways to Thrive on an Anti-inflammatory Diet Plan
Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet can significantly improve your overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. However, making the transition to a new way of eating can be challenging. To ensure your success on an anti-inflammatory diet, it’s important to have a plan and the right tools in place. Here are some tips to help you get started and stay on track.
1. Meal planning: Plan your meals in advance to ensure that you always have healthy food on hand. This can include meal prepping for the week or batch cooking to have ready-made meals in the freezer.
2. Keep healthy snacks on hand: Readily available healthy snacks can help prevent overeating or reaching for unhealthy options when hunger strikes.
3. Make a grocery list: Make a list of all the foods you’ll need for the 21 days and stick to it when shopping. This will help you avoid impulse buying processed or high-calorie foods.
4. Incorporate variety: Make sure you include a mix of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and healthy fats in your meals to ensure you receive all the nutrients you need.
5. Adequate Hydration: Drinking water can help you feel full and keep your body hydrated, which is important for overall health.
6. Get enough sleep: Adequate sleep is essential for overall health and can help reduce stress and improve the effectiveness of the diet.
7. Be consistent: Stick to the plan as closely as possible and make adjustments as needed to fit your lifestyle.
8. Find healthy alternatives: If you have a sweet tooth, try to find healthy alternatives to your favorite treats.
9. Keep track of progress: Keep a food diary or take photos of your meals to track your progress and stay motivated.
10. Listen to your body: If you feel unwell or experience any negative side effects, consult a healthcare professional to ensure the diet is safe for you.
21-Day Anti-Inflammatory Diet Plan: A Sample Guide
Day 1:
Breakfast: Blueberry smoothies with nuts
Lunch: Spinach and chickpea stew
Snack: 1 Pear
Dinner: Honey Glazed Salmon
Day 2:
Breakfast: Scrambled eggs And Avocado toast
Lunch: Quinoa chili with sweet potato
Snack: Cinnamon glazed Walnuts
Dinner: Kale and chicken soup
Day 3:
Breakfast: Coconut and chia pudding with nuts
Lunch: Chicken & kimchi Stew
Snack: Pomegranate salsa
Dinner: Vegetable turmeric soup
Day 4:
Breakfast: Kale pineapple smoothie
Lunch: Slow cooked turkey
Snack: Chili lime cucumber
Dinner: Chickpea curry
Day 5:
Breakfast: Spinach toast with whole wheat bread
Lunch: Chicken and spinach pasta
Snack: Roasted almonds
Dinner: Quinoa Egg Fried rice
Day 6:
Breakfast: Blueberry Chia Almond Pudding
Lunch: Sweet Potato and kale salad
Snack: Honey Roasted Cashews
Dinner: Herby fish with mushrooms
Day 7:
Breakfast: Oatmeal pancakes with apple & cinnamon
Lunch: Sushi salad
Snack: Toasted chickpeas
Dinner: Lime chicken with cilantro
Day 8:
Breakfast: Banana and almond smoothie
Lunch: Green salad with blueberry
Snack: Oatmeal cookies
Dinner: Fish tacos with white beans
Day 9:
Breakfast: Buckwheat Porridge with cherries
Lunch: Broccoli soup
Snack: Crunchy Cinnamon Granola
Dinner: Red bean rice with chicken
Day 10:
Breakfast: Cocoa cheery oatmeal
Lunch: Tuna and Green Bean Salad
Snack: Honey Roasted Cashews
Dinner: Grilled chicken with broccoli
Day 11:
Breakfast: Baked egg in tomato sauce
Lunch: Mediterranean lentil salad
Snack: Greek yogurt with blackberries
Dinner: Shrimp with lime and rosemary
Day 12:
Breakfast: Raspberry Lemon Tart Smoothie
Lunch: Broccoli soup with chickpeas
Snack: Spicy roasted cashews
Dinner: Honey garlic chicken with carrots
Day 13:
Breakfast: Coconut flour pancakes with turmeric
Lunch: Baked fish tacos with avocado
Snack: Greek yogurt with strawberries
Dinner: Lentils meatball
Day 14:
Breakfast: Kefir and raspberry smoothie
Lunch: Walnut-crusted fish with rosemary
Snack: Roasted Carrots
Dinner: White bean pasta soup
Day 15:
Breakfast: Wheat toast with chickpeas
Lunch: Black bean vegan Quesadilla
Snack: Baked Apple chips
Dinner: Roasted fish with almonds
Day 16:
Breakfast: Baked crepes with mushrooms
Lunch: Chicken and potato
Snack: Salted roasted almonds
Dinner: Lentil and vegetable soup
Day 17:
Breakfast: Golden milk & chia seed pudding
Lunch: Chicken with lemon tahini sauce
Snack: One plum
Dinner: Mushroom and spinach pasta
Day 18:
Breakfast: Peanut butter with sprouted grain toast
Lunch: Veges and white bean salad
Snack: Pistachio and Greek yogurt bars
Dinner: Salmon with broccoli
Day 19:
Breakfast: Turmeric scrambled eggs
Lunch: Quinoa Chicken salad
Snack: Greek yogurt and avocado dip
Dinner: Red bean and Veges Meatball
Day 20:
Breakfast: Overnight Oats with peanut butter
Lunch: Roasted Vegetable and black beans tacos
Snack: Greek yogurt with berries
Dinner: Chickpea and potato curry
Day 21:
Breakfast: Raspberry kefir
Lunch: Baked fish with mushrooms and roasted potatoes
Snack: Humus with cucumber
Dinner: Red Bean vegan soup with saffron
Limitations of the 21 Day Anti-Inflammatory Diet Plan
Even though an anti-inflammatory diet can be good for your health in many ways, it is not without its challenges. It’s important to be aware of them so you can set realistic goals and plan accordingly. Some of the most common limitations or challenges in implementing a 21 day anti inflammatory diet are as follows: Difficulty finding and affording certain foods.
- Difficulty sticking to the diet due to social and cultural pressures
- Limited options for people with dietary restrictions or allergies
- Need to consult with a registered dietitian before making changes to diet.
- The potential for nutrient deficiencies if not planned properly
- Difficulty in maintaining the diet in the long-term due to its restrictive nature.
- Risk of over-restriction leading to disordered eating.
- Difficulty in finding anti-inflammatory options when eating out or traveling.
- The possibility of increased food costs due to the focus on high-quality, whole foods.
- Difficulty in implementing the diet in a busy daily routine.
- Lack of understanding and knowledge about anti-inflammatory foods and their preparation
- Difficulty in maintaining variety in the diet to prevent boredom and lack of adherence
- The need for consistent monitoring of symptoms to assess the effectiveness of the diet
21 Day Anti Inflammatory Diet Plan in PDF (Printable)
| Days | Breakfast | Lunch | Snack | Dinner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Blueberry smoothies with nuts | Spinach and chickpea stew | 1 Pear | Honey Glazed salmon |
| 2 | Scrambled eggs And Avocado toast | Quinoa chili with sweet potato | Cinnamon glazed Walnuts | Kale and chicken soup |
| 3 | Coconut and chia pudding with nuts | Chicken & kimchi Stew | Pomegranate salsa | Vegetable turmeric soup |
| 4 | Kale pineapple smoothie | Slow cooked turkey | Chili lime cucumber | Chickpea curry |
| 5 | Spinach toast with whole wheat bread | Chicken and spinach pasta | Roasted almonds | Quinoa Egg Fried rice |
| 6 | Blueberry Chia Almond Pudding | Sweet Potato and kale salad | Honey Roasted Cashews | Herby fish with mushrooms |
| 7 | Oatmeal pancakes with apple & cinnamon | Sushi salad | Toasted chickpeas | Lime chicken with cilantro |
| 8 | Banana and almond smoothie | Green salad with blueberry | Oatmeal cookies | Fish tacos with white beans |
| 9 | Buckwheat Porridge with cherries | Broccoli soup | Crunchy Cinnamon Granola | Red bean rice with chicken |
| 10 | Cocoa cheery oatmeal | Tuna and Green Bean Salad | Honey Roasted Cashews | Grilled chicken with broccoli |
| 11 | Baked egg in tomato sauce | Mediterranean lentil salad | Greek yogurt with blackberries | Shrimp with lime and rosemary |
| 12 | Raspberry Lemon Tart Smoothie | Broccoli soup with chickpeas | Spicy roasted cashews | Honey garlic chicken with carrots |
| 13 | Coconut flour pancakes with turmeric | Baked fish tacos with avocado | Greek yogurt with strawberries | Lentils meatball |
| 14 | Kefir and raspberry smoothie | Walnut crusted fish with rosemary | Roasted Carrots | White bean pasta soup |
| 15 | Wheat toast with chickpeas | Black bean vegan Quesadilla | Baked Apple chips | Roasted fish with almonds |
| 16 | Baked crepes with mushrooms | Chicken and potato | Salted roasted almonds | Lentil and vegetable soup |
| 17 | Golden milk & chia seed pudding | Chicken with lemon tahini sauce | One plum | Mushroom and spinach pasta |
| 18 | Peanut butter with sprouted grain toast | Veges and white bean salad | Pistachio and Greek yogurt bars | Salmon with broccoli |
| 19 | Turmeric scrambled eggs | Quinoa Chicken salad | Greek yogurt and avocado dip | Red bean and Veges Meatball |
| 20 | Overnight Oats with peanut butter | Roasted Vegetable and black beans tacos | Greek yogurt with berries | Chickpea and potato curry |
| 21 | Raspberry kefir | Baked fish with mushrooms and roasted potatoes | Humus with cucumber | Red Bean vegan soup with saffron |
See Also
Anti Inflammatory Diet Food List
Anti Inflammatory Diet Recipes
Anti Inflammatory Mediterranean Diet Plan
Vertical Diet Meal Plan with Food List
References
1. Chen, L., Deng, H., Cui, H., Fang, J., Zuo, Z., Deng, J., Li, Y., Wang, X., & Zhao, L. (2018). Inflammatory responses and inflammation-associated diseases in organs. Oncotarget, 9(6), 7204. https://doi.org/10.18632/ONCOTARGET.23208
2. Furman, D., Campisi, J., Verdin, E. et al. Chronic inflammation in the etiology of disease across the life span. Nat Med 25, 1822–1832 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-019-0675-0
3. Pahwa, R., Goyal, A., & Jialal, I. (2022). Chronic Inflammation. Pathobiology of Human Disease: A Dynamic Encyclopedia of Disease Mechanisms, 300–314. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-386456-7.01808-6
4. Willett WC. The Mediterranean diet: science and practice. Public Health Nutr. 2006 Feb;9(1A):105-10. doi: 10.1079/phn2005931. PMID: 16512956.
5. Morris, M. C., Tangney, C. C., Wang, Y., Sacks, F. M., Bennett, D. A., & Aggarwal, N. T. (2015). MIND diet associated with reduced incidence of Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s & dementia : the journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, 11(9), 1007–1014. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jalz.2014.11.009
6. Tuso, P. J., Ismail, M. H., Ha, B. P., & Bartolotto, C. (2013). Nutritional update for physicians: plant-based diets. The Permanente journal, 17(2), 61–66. https://doi.org/10.7812/TPP/12-085
7. Field, R., Field, T., Pourkazemi, F., & Rooney, K. (2022). Low-carbohydrate and ketogenic diets: a scoping review of neurological and inflammatory outcomes in human studies and their relevance to chronic pain. Nutrition research reviews, 1–71. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0954422422000087
8. Konijeti, G. G., Kim, N., Lewis, J. D., Groven, S., Chandrasekaran, A., Grandhe, S., Diamant, C., Singh, E., Oliveira, G., Wang, X., Molparia, B., & Torkamani, A. (2017). Efficacy of the Autoimmune Protocol Diet for Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Inflammatory bowel diseases, 23(11), 2054–2060. https://doi.org/10.1097/MIB.0000000000001221
9. Schönenberger, K. A., Schüpfer, A. C., Gloy, V. L., Hasler, P., Stanga, Z., Kaegi-Braun, N., & Reber, E. (2021). Effect of Anti-Inflammatory Diets on Pain in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients, 13(12), 4221. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13124221
10. Hansrivijit, P., Oli, S., Khanal, R., Ghahramani, N., Thongprayoon, C., & Cheungpasitporn, W. (2020). Mediterranean diet and the risk of chronic kidney disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nephrology (Carlton, Vic.), 25(12), 913–918. https://doi.org/10.1111/nep.13778
