The secret to lasting wellness

If you want to live longer while feeling happy and vibrant (and who doesn't?), curbing inflammation holds the key. In the short term, inflammation helps us heal from injuries and infections. But chronic inflammation can damage cells and speed aging—a phenomenon dubbed “inflammaging.” Luckily, NIH research suggests that outsmarting the process protects against diabetes, cancer, depression and dementia. Here’s how to do it

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Enjoy a side of coleslaw

Or sip a green smoothie. Cabbage, kale, spinach and endive have a powerful ability to combat inflammaging. Credit the beta-carotene in leafy greens, which blunts production of molecules that trigger inflammation. A study in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine suggests that enjoying two to three servings of the veggies daily spurs notable drops in inflammation within one week. Other options that deliver a beta-carotene boost: arugula, bok choy, romaine, collard greens and beet greens.

Dip bread into some olive oil