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Anti-inflammatory diet and nutrient intake in spinal cord injury

The objective of this study was to describe the observed changes in nutrient intakes following a 3-month anti-inflammatory diet, and to explore potential relationships between the change in nutrients and the change in various inflammatory mediators (1). The treatment group demonstrated a significant reduction in fat intake, a significant increase in protein intake and no change in carbohydrates or energy intake. The treatment group showed a significant increase in some nutrients with established anti-inflammatory properties including vitamins A, C, and E, and omega-3 fatty acids. Significant reductions in proinflammatory nutrients were observed including trans fatty acids, caffeine, and sodium. The treatment group also showed significant reductions in the proinflammatory mediators. Further, several proinflammatory mediators were negatively correlated with anti-inflammatory nutrients, including vitamin A, carotenoids, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc. The authors conclude that this study provides evidence that dietary alterations are effective at reducing chronic inflammation in individuals with SCI and provides a preliminary assessment of the related nutrient changes.