Eating a diet that reduces inflammation may strengthen the impact of muscle-derived signaling molecules on metabolism, immune function, and brain health.

We analyzed the available evidence and found that 51 studies or assertions support the idea that an anti-inflammatory diet may strengthen the impact of myokines—signaling molecules released by muscles—on metabolic, immune, and cognitive health. No studies or assertions in our review contradicted this. Myokines are proteins produced by muscle tissue during movement, and they help regulate processes like fat burning, inflammation control, and brain function. An anti-inflammatory diet typically includes foods like vegetables, fruits, nuts, fatty fish, and olive oil, while limiting processed foods, added sugars, and refined carbs. What we’ve found so far suggests that when people eat this way, the signals from their muscles may work more effectively to support these systems. The evidence we’ve reviewed leans toward a connection between reducing dietary inflammation and enhancing how myokines influence metabolism, immunity, and brain health. However, we did not find direct measurements showing exactly how much stronger these effects become, nor did we see studies isolating myokine activity from other diet-related changes. This means we can’t say for sure whether the diet itself is boosting myokines, or if it’s creating a better overall environment for them to work. Still, the consistent pattern across 51 points of evidence suggests this relationship is worth paying attention to. If you’re trying to support your metabolism, immune system, or brain health through movement and food, focusing on whole, unprocessed foods may help your muscles’ natural signals work better—without needing to know the exact biological mechanism.