Originally published at https://www.psychreg.org on August 1, 2025.
Anti-inflammatory eating is gaining traction not as a fad but as a sustainable lifestyle shift that supports long-term energy and health. As a hospitalist and Ironman triathlon trainee, Dr Gregory Duhon, MD, champions anti-inflammatory eating as a practical, evidence-informed strategy to support long-term health, energy, and clarity; without extreme diets or trends.. By focusing on balance and whole foods, Dr Duhon believes an anti-inflammatory diet can offer a path to vibrant health that fits into everyday life.
What is anti-inflammatory eating?
Anti-inflammatory eating focuses on whole, nutrient-dense foods that reduce chronic inflammation, support cellular function, and help the body recover from stress-whether physical or mental. Unlike fad diets, this approach emphasises inclusion over restriction, making it easier to sustain.
Common components include:
Fruits and vegetables (especially leafy greens and berries)
Whole grains and legumes
Healthy fats like olive oil and omega-3s
Lean proteins such as fish, tofu, and poultry
Fermented foods for gut health
“Food is more than fuel; it’s information,” says Gregory Duhon, MD. “It tells your body how to respond.”
How it boosts daily energy
If you find yourself battling 3pm brain fog or craving sugar before lunch, your diet could be to blame. Highly processed meals trigger blood sugar spikes and systemic inflammation, leading to crashes in energy. In contrast, anti-inflammatory foods help:
Stabilise blood sugar
Reduce oxidative stress
Support mitochondrial energy production
So what does that mean, exactly? Let’s break it down.
Oxidative stress happens when there’s an imbalance between harmful molecules (free radicals) and the body’s ability to neutralize them. This can damage cells and make you feel tired. Anti-inflammatory foods are rich in antioxidants that help reduce this damage, supporting better energy and health.
Mitochondria are the “powerhouses” of cells. They turn nutrients into ATP, the energy your body uses to function. Certain nutrients in anti-inflammatory foods (like B vitamins, omega-3s, and antioxidants) help mitochondria work better, so your body has more steady energy throughout the day.
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This dietary approach helps maintain steady energy levels throughout the day; without the highs and lows that often come with ultra-processed food and excessive sugar.
“Stable energy isn’t just about caffeine or sleep. It’s about fuelling your cells properly,” says Dr Gregory Duhon.
From endurance sports to everyday life
Dr Gregory Duhon, MD isn’t just a medical expert. He’s also training for an Ironman triathlon. His demanding schedule as a hospitalist and endurance athlete gives him a unique perspective on the real-world application of anti-inflammatory nutrition.
A 2015 study published in Immunology and Cell Biology highlighted how anti-inflammatory diets improve immune resilience and performance in elite athletes during periods of high physical stress. While the study focuses on athletic performance, the implications apply more broadly to anyone seeking sustained energy and faster recovery.
“I’ve noticed I don’t hit those midday slumps like I used to,” Dr Duhon shares. “Eating this way helps me feel sharp, focused, and resilient.”
Cognitive clarity through the gut-brain axis
Anti-inflammatory eating may also benefit mental clarity and emotional health. Recent research highlights the relationship between diet and the gut-brain axis, showing how nutrient-dense foods help regulate mood, focus, and overall cognitive function.
How Dr Gregory Duhon blends cultural cuisine with healthy eating
For Dr Gregory Duhon, healthy eating isn’t about giving up cultural favourites but adapting them to be more nourishing. He enjoys cooking Cajun and Vietnamese meals, and by incorporating anti-inflammatory principles into these culinary traditions, he demonstrates how culture and health can harmonize. His dishes feature herbs, fermented ingredients, and lighter cooking methods that promote health without sacrificing flavour. He shares, “Small changes can add up. Try using olive oil instead of butter, or add a handful of fresh herbs to add flavours rather than just adding salt.”
A practical step toward longevity
Anti-inflammatory eating isn’t a cure-all but a strong foundation for everyday health. As with many healthy habits, it’s all about consistency, not perfection. With mindful choices and a flexible mindset, Dr Duhon believes many people can reduce inflammation and enhance their energy levels.
“You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight,” he says. “Start small. Choose one meal to upgrade, one processed snack to replace. Over time, those small shifts build resilience: physically, mentally, and emotionally.”
About Dr Gregory Duhon, MD
Dr Gregory Duhon, MD, is an Internal Medicine Physician and Hospitalist with acumen in ICU, emergency room, and crisis/pandemic management. Known for compassionate patient care, Dr Duhon has donated volunteer time to provide medical care to flood victims and those affected by opioid addiction. Gregory Duhon is training for the Ironman and enjoys travel, cooking, and passion fruit propagation.
Key Takeaways
Anti-inflammatory eating supports consistent energy, focus, and immune recovery.
Gregory Duhon, MD integrates medical science with lived experience as an endurance athlete.
Whole foods, healthy fats, and fermented ingredients form the foundation of this lifestyle.It’s not about deprivation. It’s about making nourishing choices accessible and enjoyable.