Food Prep: The Anti-Inflamation Cookbook

A friend lent me this great cookbook by Amanda Haas which is subtitled “The Delicious Way to Reduce Inflammation and Stay Healthy.” It’s not low calorie per se, but it’s clear that reducing inflammation in our bodies can assist in maintaining a healthy weight. It’s very difficult to get active and eat right if your body feels like it’s constantly under attack.

Ms. Haas tells her story about a lifetime of health issues. Finally, at the encouragement of a new doctor, she set out to address her concerns by creating recipes that are healthy and flavorful. She said, “I would literally cook my way out of pain, and into a healthier, happier life” (1).

This cookbook includes important background materials on inflammatory conditions, how to set up an anti-inflammatory kitchen, healthy foods that should be included in our diets, as well as foods to avoid. It has six recipe sections as follows:

• Basics and make-ahead recipes
• Juices, smoothies, and breakfasts
• Snacks and appetizers
• Vegetables and legumes
• Fish, chicken, pork, lamb, and beef
• Desserts

These recipes look healthy, but it’s important to note that this cookbook is not aimed at the dieter. It’s focus is on reducing inflammation. No nutrition facts are given for the recipes, though the vast majority seem to be low in calories. There is little dairy (goat cheese, yogurt, almond milk, and coconut milk are used) and no gluten. It appears that all meats are represented, as well as eggs. No artificial sweeteners are used, but limited amounts of cane sugar, honey, and maple syrup are present in some recipes.

The instructions are clear and most ingredients are easily obtained. The taste of the recipe I tried, Country Captain’s Chicken with Curry and Raisins, was fresh and delicious. Ms. Haas includes options for those with nightshade (tomatoes in this case) sensitivities.

This cookbook makes a useful addition to your collection if you’re looking for healthy food that’s not boring. The flavor combinations are a welcome change from typical diet fare. Be cautious with your fats when using these recipes and you’ll be fine.

(1). The Anti-inflammation Cookbook. Amanda Haas with Dr. Bradly Jacobs. 2015.