30-Day No-Sugar-Added, High-Protein, Anti-Inflammatory Meal Plan, Created by a Dietitian Enjoy a month of delicious high-protein anti-inflammatory meals, all without any added sugar By Emily Lachtrupp, M.S., RD Emily Lachtrupp, M.S., RD Emily Lachtrupp is a registered dietitian experienced in nutritional counseling, recipe analysis and meal plans. She's worked with clients who struggle with diabetes, weight loss, digestive issues and more. In her spare time, you can find her enjoying all that Vermont has to offer with her family and her dog, Winston. EatingWell's Editorial Guidelines Updated on January 7, 2025 Reviewed by Dietitian Maria Laura Haddad-Garcia Reviewed by Dietitian Maria Laura Haddad-Garcia Maria Laura is EatingWell's Editorial Manager for Nutrition & News. As part of the nutrition team, she edits and assigns nutrition-related content and provides nutrition reviews for articles. Maria Laura's education, experience and clinical hours from Mexico are equivalent to that of a U.S. credentialed registered dietitian. She is an almond butter lover, food enthusiast and has over seven years of experience in nutrition counseling. EatingWell's Editorial Guidelines In This Article View All In This Article Why This Plan Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Meal Prep Tips FAQs Foods to Focus On Helpful Strategies Close Credit: Antonis Achilleos Reducing inflammation is a high priority on many people’s health to-do lists lately. And for good reason—research links chronic inflammation to a growing number of health issues. In this 30-day meal plan, we map out a month of high-protein anti-inflammatory recipes. Each day provides at least 79 grams of protein, spread throughout the day, to promote stable energy levels and stave off that afternoon energy dip. You’ll also find at least 28 grams of satiating fiber per day—fiber is an important nutrient that has a slew of health benefits, including reducing inflammation. And of, course, no added sugar in this plan. Why This Meal Plan Is Great for You Unlike acute inflammation, which is a temporary response to an injury, chronic inflammation is a low-level inflammatory response that can be a catalyst for several health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, some types of cancers and even dementia. There are a lot of trendy "superfoods" that claim to be a cure-all, but the best strategy for reducing chronic inflammation for most people starts with a nutritious diet. Similar to the Mediterranean diet, the anti-inflammatory diet focuses on nutrient-rich foods that may reduce inflammation, such as fatty fish, nuts, seeds and plenty of colorful produce. Because many people follow meal plans with the goal of weight loss, we set this plan at 1,500 calories per day, which is a level where many people will lose weight. As with all meal plans, this is meant to serve as a framework for a healthy eating routine. Feel free to swap out meals or snacks if there's something else you prefer and modify as needed. This 1,500-calorie meal plan has modifications for 2,000 calories to support those with different calorie needs. While we previously included meal plans and modifications for 1,200 calories, we no longer do. The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans suggests that limiting your calories to 1,200 per day is too low for most people to meet their nutritional needs, plus it’s unsustainable for long-term health and well-being. How Inflammation Ages You—Plus 4 Ways to Reduce "Inflammaging," According to Dietitians Week 1 Day 1 Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Melissa Gray, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster Breakfast (318 calories) 1 serving Strawberry-Banana Green Smoothie A.M. Snack (291 calories) 1 medium apple2 Tbsp. almond butter Lunch (333 calories) 1 serving Arugula & Cucumber Salad with Tuna 1 medium pear P.M. Snack (162 calories) 1 (5-oz.) container low-fat plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt1 medium peach, sliced Dinner (394 calories) 1 serving Eggs in Tomato Sauce with Chickpeas & Spinach 1-oz. slice whole-wheat bread Daily Totals: 1,498 calories, 61g fat, 87g protein, 166g carbohydrate, 28g fiber, 1,528mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Sprouted-Grain Toast with Peanut Butter & Banana to breakfast and add ¼ cup unsalted dry-roasted almonds as an evening snack. Day 2 Photographer: Morgan Hunt Glaze, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall Breakfast (357 calories) 1 serving Muffin-Tin Omelets with Feta & Peppers 1 large pear A.M. Snack (235 calories) 1 serving Cottage Cheese Snack Jar ¼ cup raspberries Lunch (329 calories) 1 serving Cumin Chicken & Chickpea Stew 1 medium orange P.M. Snack (95 calories) 1 medium apple Dinner (509 calories) 1 serving Tilapia Fish Tacos Daily Totals: 1,525 calories, 60g fat, 98g protein, 162g carbohydrate, 29g fiber, 1,975mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Berry-Kefir Smoothie to breakfast and add 1½ Tbsp. natural peanut butter to P.M. snack. Day 3 Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christine Keely Breakfast (318 calories) 1 serving Strawberry-Banana Green Smoothie A.M. Snack (222 calories) ¼ cup unsalted dry-roasted almonds¼ cup raspberries Lunch (329 calories) 1 serving Cumin Chicken & Chickpea Stew 1 medium orange P.M. Snack (219 calories) 1 serving Cottage Cheese Snack Jar Dinner (437 calories) 1 serving Super Green Pasta Daily Totals: 1,525 calories, 64g fat, 94g protein, 155g carbohydrate, 29g fiber, 1,559mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Sprouted-Grain Toast with Peanut Butter & Banana to breakfast and add 1 serving Traditional Greek Salad to dinner. Day 4 Breakfast (331 calories) 1 serving Muffin-Tin Omelets with Feta & Peppers 1 medium banana A.M. Snack (291 calories) 1 medium apple2 Tbsp. almond butter Lunch (329 calories) 1 serving Cumin Chicken & Chickpea Stew 1 medium orange P.M. Snack (165 calories) 1 (5-oz.) container low-fat plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt1 cup blackberries Dinner (375 calories) 1 serving Anti-Inflammatory Chicken & Beet Salad Daily Totals: 1,491 calories, 72g fat, 90g protein, 136g carbohydrate, 28g fiber, 1,925mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Berry-Kefir Smoothie to breakfast and add ¼ cup chopped walnuts to P.M. snack. Day 5 Stacy Allen Breakfast (318 calories) 1 serving Strawberry-Banana Green Smoothie A.M. Snack (291 calories) 1 medium apple2 Tbsp. almond butter Lunch (329 calories) 1 serving Cumin Chicken & Chickpea Stew 1 medium orange P.M. Snack (165 calories) 1 (5-oz.) container low-fat plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt1 cup blackberries Dinner (391 calories) 1 serving Anti-Inflammatory Lemony Salmon & Orzo Casserole Meal-Prep Tip: Reserve two servings Anti-Inflammatory Lemony Salmon & Orzo Casserole to have for lunch on Days 6 and 7. Daily Totals: 1,493 calories, 53g fat, 98g protein, 172g carbohydrate, 30g fiber, 1,584mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Sprouted-Grain Toast with Peanut Butter & Banana to breakfast and add 1 serving Guacamole Chopped Salad to dinner. Day 6 Photographer: Brie Goldman, Food Stylist: Addelyn Evans, Prop Stylist: Gabriel Greco Breakfast (331 calories) 1 serving Muffin-Tin Omelets with Feta & Peppers 1 medium banana A.M. Snack (271 calories) 1½ cups edamame, in pods Lunch (391 calories) 1 serving Anti-Inflammatory Lemony Salmon & Orzo Casserole P.M. Snack (32 calories) ½ cup raspberries Dinner (476 calories) 1 serving Sheet-Pan Baked Feta with Bell Peppers & Chickpeas 1 serving Massaged Kale Salad Daily Totals: 1,501 calories, 71g fat, 80g protein, 144g carbohydrate, 28g fiber, 2,207mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Berry-Kefir Smoothie to breakfast and add ¼ cup unsalted dry-roasted almonds to P.M. snack. Day 7 Photographer: Brie Goldman, Food Stylist: Addelyn Evans, Prop Stylist: Gabriel Greco Breakfast (357 calories) 1 serving Muffin-Tin Omelets with Feta & Peppers 1 large pear A.M. Snack (62 calories) 1 medium orange Lunch (391 calories) 1 serving Anti-Inflammatory Lemony Salmon & Orzo Casserole P.M. Snack (165 calories) 1 (5-oz.) container low-fat plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt1 cup blackberries Dinner (527 calories) 1 serving 5-Ingredient Roasted Lemon Chicken & Vegetables 1 serving Massaged Kale Salad Daily Totals: 1,502 calories, 67g fat, 88g protein, 147g carbohydrate, 28g fiber, 2,046mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Berry-Kefir Smoothie to breakfast and add ¼ cup unsalted dry-roasted almonds to A.M. snack. Week 2 Day 8 Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle Breakfast (310 calories) 1 cup low-fat plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt2 Tbsp. chia seeds½ cup blueberries (or fruit of choice) A.M. Snack (95 calories) 1 medium apple Lunch (361 calories) 1 serving Egg Salad Avocado Toast 1 large pear P.M. Snack (219 calories) 1 serving Cottage Cheese Snack Jar Dinner (498 calories) 1 serving Low-Carb, High-Protein Ground Turkey Zucchini Boats 1 serving Traditional Greek Salad Daily Totals: 1,483 calories, 66g fat, 88g protein, 149g carbohydrate, 28g fiber, 1,862mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 2 Tbsp. almond butter to A.M. snack and add ¼ cup unsalted dry-roasted almonds with 1 medium banana as an evening snack. Day 9 Carolyn Hodges, M.S., RDN Breakfast (330 calories) 1 serving Anti-Inflammatory Lemon-Blueberry Smoothie A.M. Snack (211 calories) 1 cup edamame, in pods1 plum Lunch (374 calories) 1 serving Spinach & Strawberry Meal-Prep Salad P.M. Snack (162 calories) 1 (5-oz.) container low-fat plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt1 medium peach Dinner (432 calories) 1 serving Cajun-Spiced Tofu Tostadas with Beet Crema Daily Totals: 1,509 calories, 70g fat, 81g protein, 155g carbohydrate, 33g fiber, 1,181mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Sprouted-Grain Toast with Peanut Butter & Banana to breakfast and add 1 serving Guacamole Chopped Salad to dinner. Day 10 Photographer Victor Protasio, Food Stylist Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist Lydia Pursell Breakfast (310 calories) 1 cup low-fat plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt2 Tbsp. chia seeds½ cup blueberries (or fruit of choice) A.M. Snack (131 calories) 1 large pear Lunch (374 calories) 1 serving Spinach & Strawberry Meal-Prep Salad P.M. Snack (177 calories) 1 medium apple¾ cup low-fat plain kefir Dinner (522 calories) 1 serving Garlic Butter-Roasted Salmon with Potatoes & Asparagus Daily Totals: 1,514 calories, 69g fat, 95g protein, 138g carbohydrate, 28g fiber, 1,089mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add ¼ cup unsalted dry-roasted almonds to A.M. snack, add 1 medium banana to lunch and add 1 serving Massaged Kale Salad to dinner. Day 11 Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margaret Dickeyt, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless Breakfast (330 calories) 1 serving Anti-Inflammatory Lemon-Blueberry Smoothie A.M. Snack (95 calories) 1 medium apple Lunch (374 calories) 1 serving Spinach & Strawberry Meal-Prep Salad P.M. Snack (206 calories) ¼ cup unsalted dry-roasted almonds Dinner (516 calories) 1 serving One-Pot Chicken with Farro Daily Totals: 1,521 calories, 69g fat, 87g protein, 148g carbohydrate, 32g fiber, 1,396mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 2 Tbsp. almond butter to A.M. snack, add 1 clementine to P.M. snack and add 1 serving Guacamole Chopped Salad to dinner. Day 12 Photographer: Rachel Marek, Food Stylist: Holly Dreesman, Prop Stylist: Gabriel Greco Breakfast (300 calories) 1 cup low-fat plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt2 Tbsp. chia seeds½ cup raspberries (or fruit of choice) A.M. Snack (219 calories) 1 serving Cottage Cheese Snack Jar Lunch (374 calories) 1 serving Spinach & Strawberry Meal-Prep Salad P.M. Snack (95 calories) 1 medium apple Dinner (461 calories) 1 serving Creamy Green Pea Pesto Pasta Evening Snack (62 calories) 1 cup blackberries Meal-Prep Tip: Reserve two servings Creamy Green Pea Pesto Pasta to have for lunch on Days 13 and 14. Daily Totals: 1,511 calories, 63g fat, 90g protein, 154g carbohydrate, 29g fiber, 1,452mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 3 Tbsp. sliced almonds to breakfast and add 1 serving Cucumber & Avocado Salad to dinner. Day 13 Photographer: Morgan Hunt Glaze, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster, Food Stylist Jennifer Wendorf Breakfast (330 calories) 1 serving Anti-Inflammatory Lemon-Blueberry Smoothie A.M. Snack (99 calories) ½ cup low-fat plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt¼ cup raspberries Lunch (461 calories) 1 serving Creamy Green Pea Pesto Pasta P.M. Snack (179 calories) 1 cup edamame, in pods Dinner (447 calories) 1 serving Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto & Shrimp Daily Totals: 1,516 calories, 78g fat, 81g protein, 142g carbohydrate, 28g fiber, 1,374mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 2 large hard-boiled eggs to breakfast, add 3 Tbsp. sliced almonds to A.M. snack, add 1 medium orange to P.M. snack and add 1 serving Massaged Kale Salad to dinner. Day 14 Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Melissa Gray, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster Breakfast (310 calories) 1 cup low-fat plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt2 Tbsp. chia seeds½ cup blueberries (or fruit of choice) A.M. Snack (131 calories) 1 large pear Lunch (461 calories) 1 serving Creamy Green Pea Pesto Pasta P.M. Snack (135 calories) 3/4 cup edamame, in pods Dinner (462 calories) 1 serving Lemon-Garlic Chicken Casserole Daily Totals: 1,499 calories, 54g fat, 89g protein, 175g carbohydrate, 28g fiber, 1,396mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add ¼ cup unsalted dry-roasted almonds to A.M. snack, increase to 1½ cups edamame in pods at P.M. snack and add 1 serving Massaged Kale Salad to dinner. Week 3 Day 15 Photography / Caitlin Bensel, Food Styling / Ruth Blackburn Breakfast (295 calories) 1 serving Spinach & Egg Scramble with Raspberries A.M. Snack (95 calories) 1 medium apple Lunch (357 calories) 1 serving Chickpea Tuna Salad P.M. Snack (241 calories) 1 cup low-fat plain kefir1 large pear Dinner (508 calories) 1 serving Salmon & Avocado Salad Daily Totals: 1,495 calories, 74g fat, 86g protein, 130g carbohydrate, 29g fiber, 1,499mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Berry-Kefir Smoothie to breakfast and add 2 Tbsp. almond butter to A.M. snack. Day 16 Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Torie Cox, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen Breakfast (410 calories) 1 serving Anti-Inflammatory Cherry-Spinach Smoothie A.M. Snack (119 calories) 1 (5-oz.) container low-fat plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt¼ cup raspberries Lunch (367 calories) 1 serving One-Pot Lentil & Vegetable Soup with Parmesan 1 medium orange P.M. Snack (176 calories) ¼ cup shelled unsalted dry-roasted pistachios Dinner (427 calories) 1 serving Chicken & Quinoa Casserole Meal-Prep Tip: Reserve leftover Chicken & Quinoa Casserole to have for dinner tomorrow night. Daily Totals: 1,499 calories, 68g fat, 83g protein, 153g carbohydrate, 32g fiber, 1,371mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add ¼ cup sliced almonds to A.M. snack, add 1 medium banana to P.M. snack and add 1 serving Guacamole Chopped Salad to dinner. Day 17 Antonis Achilleos Breakfast (410 calories) 1 serving Anti-Inflammatory Cherry-Spinach Smoothie A.M. Snack (155 calories) 2 large hard-boiled eggsPinch of salt & pepper Lunch (367 calories) 1 serving One-Pot Lentil & Vegetable Soup with Parmesan 1 medium orange P.M. Snack (145 calories) 1 cup low-fat plain kefir1 clementine Dinner (427 calories) 1 serving Chicken & Quinoa Casserole Daily Totals: 1,504 calories, 64g fat, 86g protein, 157g carbohydrate, 28g fiber, 1,698mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 medium apple to A.M. snack, add 1 serving Massaged Kale Salad to dinner and add 1 serving Apple with Cinnamon Almond Butter as an evening snack. Day 18 Breakfast (410 calories) 1 serving Anti-Inflammatory Cherry-Spinach Smoothie A.M. Snack (35 calories) 1 clementine Lunch (367 calories) 1 serving One-Pot Lentil & Vegetable Soup with Parmesan 1 medium orange P.M. Snack (291 calories) 1 medium apple2 Tbsp. almond butter Dinner (421 calories) 1 serving Pistachio-Crusted Halibut 1 serving Cauliflower Gratin Daily Totals: 1,524 calories, 63g fat, 82g protein, 175g carbohydrate, 35g fiber, 1,408mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 large hard-boiled egg to breakfast, change A.M. snack to 1 medium orange and ¼ cup shelled unsalted dry-roasted pistachios and add 1 serving Apple with Cinnamon Almond Butter as an evening snack. Day 19 Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Ana Kelly, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen Breakfast (295 calories) 1 serving Spinach & Egg Scramble with Raspberries A.M. Snack (219 calories) 1 serving Cottage Cheese Snack Jar Lunch (367 calories) 1 serving One-Pot Lentil & Vegetable Soup with Parmesan 1 medium orange P.M. Snack (218 calories) ¼ cup shelled unsalted dry-roasted pistachios½ cup blueberries Dinner (415 calories) 1 serving Grilled Chicken Salad Daily Totals: 1,515 calories, 69g fat, 94g protein, 140g carbohydrate, 29g fiber, 1,790mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Berry-Kefir Smoothie to breakfast and add 1 serving Everything Bagel Avocado Toast to lunch. Day 20 Diana Chistruga Breakfast (295 calories) 1 serving Spinach & Egg Scramble with Raspberries A.M. Snack (218 calories) ¼ cup shelled unsalted dry-roasted pistachios½ cup blueberries Lunch (403 calories) 1 serving Cucumber Salad Sandwich 1 cup low-fat plain kefir P.M. Snack (165 calories) ¾ cup edamame, in pods½ cup blackberries Dinner (436 calories) 1 serving One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Broccoli 1 cup cooked quinoa Daily Totals: 1,517 calories, 60g fat, 98g protein, 160g carbohydrate, 28g fiber, 1,525mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Berry-Kefir Smoothie to breakfast, add 1 medium apple to lunch and increase to 1¼ cups edamame in pods at P.M. snack. Day 21 Ali Redmond Breakfast (310 calories) 1 cup low-fat plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt2 Tbsp. chia seeds½ cup blueberries (or fruit of choice) A.M. Snack (131 calories) 1 large pear Lunch (403 calories) 1 serving Cucumber Salad Sandwich 1 cup low-fat plain kefir P.M. Snack (238 calories) ¼ cup unsalted dry-roasted almonds½ cup raspberries Dinner (424 calories) 1 serving Sheet-Pan Lemon-Pepper Chicken with Broccoli & Tomatoes 1 serving Cabbage Salad with Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette Daily Totals: 1,506 calories, 65g fat, 94g protein, 154g carbohydrate, 30g fiber, 1,552mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Sprouted-Grain Toast with Peanut Butter & Banana to breakfast, add ¼ cup shelled unsalted dry-roasted pistachios to A.M. snack and add 1 plum to lunch. Week 4 Day 22 Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christine Keely Breakfast (318 calories) 1 serving Strawberry-Banana Green Smoothie A.M. Snack (219 calories) 1 serving Cottage Cheese Snack Jar Lunch (360 calories) 1 serving White Bean & Veggie Salad P.M. Snack (139 calories) 1 large hard-boiled egg1 cup blackberries Dinner (475 calories) 1 serving Fish Taco Bowls with Green Cabbage Slaw Daily Totals: 1,511 calories, 68g fat, 79g protein, 157g carbohydrate, 29g fiber, 1,473mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Sprouted-Grain Toast with Peanut Butter & Banana to breakfast and add 1 serving Cucumber & Avocado Salad to dinner. Day 23 Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle Breakfast (331 calories) 1 serving Make-Ahead Freezer Breakfast Burritos with Eggs, Cheese & Spinach 1 clementine A.M. Snack (144 calories) 1 cup blackberries¾ cup low-fat plain kefir Lunch (336 calories) 1 serving Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with Kale 1 medium apple P.M. Snack (179 calories) 1 cup edamame, in pods Dinner (521 calories) 1 serving Pasta alla Norma 1 serving Massaged Kale Salad Meal-Prep Tip: Reserve leftover Pasta alla Norma to have for dinner tomorrow night. Daily Totals: 1,512 calories, 58g fat, 83g protein, 177g carbohydrate, 29g fiber, 1,851mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Berry-Kefir Smoothie to breakfast and add 2 Tbsp. almond butter to the apple at lunch. Day 24 Breakfast (318 calories) 1 serving Strawberry-Banana Green Smoothie A.M. Snack (146 calories) 1 (5-oz.) container low-fat plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt⅔ cup raspberries Lunch (336 calories) 1 serving Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with Kale 1 medium apple P.M. Snack (183 calories) 1 large hard-boiled egg1 medium banana Dinner (521 calories) 1 serving Pasta alla Norma 1 serving Massaged Kale Salad Daily Totals: 1,503 calories, 48g fat, 79g protein, 201g carbohydrate, 29g fiber, 1,532mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Sprouted-Grain Toast with Peanut Butter & Banana to breakfast and add 2 Tbsp. almond butter to the apple at lunch. Day 25 Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margaret Dickeyt, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless Breakfast (331 calories) 1 serving Make-Ahead Freezer Breakfast Burritos with Eggs, Cheese & Spinach 1 clementine A.M. Snack (62 calories) 1 cup blackberries Lunch (336 calories) 1 serving Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with Kale 1 medium apple P.M. Snack (299 calories) 1½ cups edamame, in pods1 plum Dinner (473 calories) 1 serving Chicken, Feta & Cucumber Couscous Bowls Daily Totals: 1,502 calories, 49g fat, 104g protein, 176g carbohydrate, 29g fiber, 1,725mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Berry-Kefir Smoothie to breakfast and add 2 Tbsp. almond butter to the apple at lunch. Day 26 Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Melissa Gray, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster Breakfast (318 calories) 1 serving Strawberry-Banana Green Smoothie A.M. Snack (179 calories) 1 medium pear1 large hard-boiled egg Lunch (336 calories) 1 serving Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with Kale 1 medium apple P.M. Snack (237 calories) 1 medium orange¼ cup shelled unsalted dry-roasted pistachios Dinner (437 calories) 1 serving Braised Lentils & Kale with Fried Eggs Daily Totals: 1,507 calories, 49g fat, 84g protein, 191g carbohydrate, 29g fiber, 1,424mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Sprouted-Grain Toast with Peanut Butter & Banana to breakfast and add 2 Tbsp. almond butter to the apple at lunch. Day 27 Photographer: Brie Goldman, Food Stylist: Holly Dreesman, Prop Stylist: Gabriel Greco Breakfast (331 calories) 1 serving Make-Ahead Freezer Breakfast Burritos with Eggs, Cheese & Spinach 1 clementine A.M. Snack (131 calories) 1 large pear Lunch (337 calories) 1 serving Arugula & Cucumber Salad with Tuna 1 medium banana P.M. Snack (120 calories) ⅔ cup raspberries1 large hard-boiled egg Dinner (502 calories) 1 serving Weeknight Lemon Chicken Skillet Dinner 1 serving Cucumber, Tomato & Feta Salad Evening Snack (95 calories) 1 medium apple Daily Totals: 1,516 calories, 57g fat, 102g protein, 157g carbohydrate, 28g fiber, 1,845mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Berry-Kefir Smoothie to breakfast and add ¼ cup unsalted dry-roasted almonds to A.M. snack. Day 28 Photographer: Sara Baurley, Food Stylist: Julia Levy, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle Breakfast (318 calories) 1 serving Strawberry-Banana Green Smoothie A.M. Snack (291 calories) 1 medium apple2 Tbsp. almond butter Lunch (337 calories) 1 serving Arugula & Cucumber Salad with Tuna 1 medium banana P.M. Snack (162 calories) 1 (5-oz.) container low-fat plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt1 medium peach Dinner (393 calories) 1 serving Green Goddess Ricotta Pasta Daily Totals: 1,501 calories, 57g fat, 87g protein, 177g carbohydrate, 29g fiber, 1,319mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add ¼ cup unsalted dry-roasted almonds to P.M. snack, add 1 serving Guacamole Chopped Salad to dinner and add 1 medium orange as an evening snack. Week 5 Day 29 Breakfast (331 calories) 1 serving Make-Ahead Freezer Breakfast Burritos with Eggs, Cheese & Spinach 1 clementine A.M. Snack (219 calories) 1 serving Cottage Cheese Snack Jar Lunch (455 calories) 1 serving White Bean & Veggie Salad 1 medium apple P.M. Snack (131 calories) 1 large pear Dinner (370 calories) 1 serving Old Bay Salmon with Lemony Mashed Peas Daily Totals: 1,507 calories, 63g fat, 86g protein, 159g carbohydrate, 30g fiber, 1,698mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Berry-Kefir Smoothie to breakfast and add ¼ cup unsalted dry-roasted almonds to P.M. snack. Day 30 Ali Redmond Breakfast (331 calories) 1 serving Make-Ahead Freezer Breakfast Burritos with Eggs, Cheese & Spinach 1 clementine A.M. Snack (135 calories) 1 (5-oz.) container low-fat plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt½ cup raspberries Lunch (455 calories) 1 serving White Bean & Veggie Salad 1 medium apple P.M. Snack (168 calories) 1 cup low-fat plain kefir1 medium peach Dinner (406 calories) 1 serving Perfect Pan-Seared Chicken Breasts 1 serving Parsley Tabbouleh Daily Totals: 1,496 calories, 63g fat, 99g protein, 144g carbohydrate, 28g fiber, 1,690mg sodium Make it 2,000 calories: Add 1 serving Berry-Kefir Smoothie to breakfast and add ¼ cup shelled unsalted dry-roasted pistachios as an evening snack. How to Meal-Prep Your Month of Meals Week 1 Make Cumin Chicken & Chickpea Stew to have for lunch on Days 2 through 5. Prepare Muffin-Tin Omelets with Feta & Peppers to have for breakfast on Days 2, 4, 6 and 7. Week 2 Make Spinach & Strawberry Meal-Prep Salad to have for lunch on Days 9 through 12. Week 3 Make One-Pot Lentil & Vegetable Soup with Parmesan to have for lunch on Days 16 through 19. Week 4 Cook Make-Ahead Freezer Breakfast Burritos with Eggs, Cheese & Spinach to have for breakfast throughout the rest of the month. Prepare Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with Kale to have for lunch on Days 23 through 26. Frequently Asked Questions Is it OK to mix and match meals if there is one I do not like? If there is a meal you don’t like, feel free to repeat a different meal on this list or check out some of our other high-protein and anti-inflammatory recipes. If you’re following this plan for weight loss, you may want to choose a meal with a similar calorie, protein and fiber level or adjust a snack or two to meet your needs. Can I eat the same breakfast or lunch every day? Yes, each breakfast and lunch recipe offers a very similar calorie range, so you can eat the same breakfast or lunch every day if that’s easier. Why is there not a modification for 1,200 calories? We no longer provide modifications for 1,200-calorie days in our meal plans. The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans suggests that limiting calories to 1,200 per day is too low for most people to meet their nutritional needs, plus it’s unsustainable for long-term health and well-being. How much protein should I aim for daily? Daily protein needs vary by individual, but everyone should aim for 10-35% of their total calories from protein. You can also calculate how much protein you need by using your body weight. The minimum amount of protein is 0.8 g/kg of body weight. So, calculate how much protein you need each day by multiplying 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of your body weight. Anti-Inflammatory Foods to Focus On Fish, especially fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, sardines and anchoviesDark leafy greensSweet potatoCruciferous veggies (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts)BeetsHerbs and spicesGarlicNuts, including natural nut buttersSeeds (pumpkin, chia, flax and more)BeansLentilsWhole grains (bulgur, farro, whole-wheat, oats, quinoa and more)AvocadoOlive oil and other unsaturated oilsUnsweetened dairy (yogurt, kefir)Fruit (especially berries, cherries and plums and high-fiber fruit, like apples and pears) Strategies to Help Lower Inflammation Exercise: Both cardiovascular exercise and resistance training have been shown to reduce inflammatory markers in the body. This doesn't mean you need to push it hard on the treadmill or put in miles on the road, you can gain all the anti-inflammatory benefits of exercise by simply starting with walking and progressing from there. Reduce Added Sugar: A diet high in excessive added sugar may aggravate chronic inflammation. That said, occasional added sugar intake is to be expected (and enjoyed!). The challenge with added sugars is that they don’t provide much, if any, nutrition and tend to displace more nutrient-dense foods if eaten in large amounts. It is recommended that men have no more than 9 teaspoons (36 grams) of added sugar per day, and 6 teaspoons (25 grams) for women. While we include plenty of natural sugar from fruit, vegetables and unsweetened dairy, you won’t find any added sugar in this plan. Added sugars are added during food processing and are found in foods such as granola bars, flavored oatmeal, some sliced breads, sweetened drinks, granola and, of course, desserts, too. Though added sugar can certainly be included in a healthy diet, many of us are consuming more than we realize. It can be helpful to survey the foods we eat regularly and see where extra added sugar is making its way into our daily routine. Get Quality Sleep: If you're not getting the recommended minimum 7 hours of sleep per night, you might be increasing your risk for inflammation. Sleep disruptions increase markers of inflammation in the body, which is then compounded if sleep quality doesn't improve. The increased inflammation can cause a weakened immune response and could lead to increased risk for heart disease and mental health conditions. You can improve your sleep quality by getting your body at the right temperature for sleep, skipping the late afternoon latte and getting some daily exercise. How We Create Meal Plans Registered dietitians thoughtfully create EatingWell’s meal plans to be easy-to-follow and delicious. Each meal plan meets specific parameters depending on the health condition and/or lifestyle goal it is targeting and is analyzed for accuracy using the nutrition database, ESHA Food Processor. As nutritional needs differ from person to person, we encourage you to use these plans as inspiration and adjust as you see fit. Explore more: Meal Plans Anti-Inflammatory Meal Plans Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit Sources EatingWell uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy. U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025. U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025. Gonzalo-Encabo P, Maldonado G, Valadés D, Ferragut C, Pérez-López A. The role of exercise training on low-grade systemic inflammation in adults with overweight and obesity: A systematic review. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021;18(24):13258. doi:10.3390/ijerph182413258 Ma X, Nan F, Liang H, et al. Excessive intake of sugar: An accomplice of inflammation. Front Immunol. 2022;13:988481. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2022.988481 American Heart Association. Added sugars. Irwin MR. Sleep disruption induces activation of inflammation and heightens risk for infectious disease: Role of impairments in thermoregulation and elevated ambient temperature. Temperature (Austin). 2022;10(2):198-234. doi:10.1080/23328940.2022.2109932