Want to know something surprising?
Inflammation can be a good thing.
While it gets a bad rap in the health and wellness world, inflammation is a vital function of our body. Inflammation, itself, comes from a surge of white blood cells being released around an injured part of the body. When your body is inflamed and swollen, it is often a sign that it is doing its job.
The problem, of course, is when the inflammation out stays its welcome.
Chronic inflammation occurs when the body seemingly doesn’t recognize that it is healed. White blood cells continue to be pumped out, as the body perceives itself to be constantly in danger.
Chronic inflammation is tricky to spot, as it is often considered an “invisible illness.” Symptoms can run the gamut from weight loss to weight gain. Other symptoms include fatigue, depression and/or anxiety, body pain, and digestive problems. These symptoms can be related to a number of things, making chronic inflammation difficult to spot.
What isn’t difficult to assess is the risk factors for those living with chronic inflammation. The body’s aggressive response to perceived injury or illness can eventually damage healthy cells and organs. This means that people who suffer from chronic inflammation are at higher risk for things like cancer, arthritis, heart disease, and dementia.
If you suspect you may be struggling with chronic inflammation, talk with your physician about what options are available to you. While you’re waiting though, we’ve broken down the best ways you can take your health into your own hands, and start reducing inflammation today!
Switch Up Your Diet
A healthy body starts with a healthy diet. But did you know your diet could potentially be triggering inflammation?
While there is no one diet that is proven to get rid of inflammation, we know that some foods are bigger triggers than others. Red meat, for example, is high in saturated fats, which can be a source of inflammation. Avoiding foods that contain refined and added sugars, is also a great step in the right direction.
Focus on adding anti-inflammatory foods into your diet. Things like dark leafy greens, fatty fish, and antioxidant-rich foods like berries are all great options.
Get Moving
Those who struggle with inflammation are at a higher risk for obesity and heart disease. A regular exercise routine can help combat this. The good news is that you don’t have to be an all-star athlete. Even moderate exercise can reduce inflammation.
We recommend taking it slow and starting with a low-impact form of exercise. Things like walking and yoga are great ways to move without further stressing the body. If you are looking for something more cardio-intensive, swimming laps is an excellent way to build endurance while protecting your joints.
Reduce Stress
Reducing stress is something that is easier said than done. However, when your body is already telling itself that it is in danger, emotional stress can exacerbate the problem.
We’re big advocates for finding a routine to minimize stress in your life. This may be as simple as incorporating twenty minutes into your day to meditate, or get some fresh air. Perhaps it’s time to reevaluate your workload and see if you can outsource some of your daily to-dos.
Whatever it is, take some time to review the stressors in your life, and see if there are more manageable ways to deal with them.
Supplements
The research on taking supplements to reduce inflammation may be slim, but it is out there. Early research shows that investing in good quality fish oil supplements, and curcumin may help fight chronic inflammation. Not a supplement person? Try using turmeric and black pepper to naturally fight inflammation.
As the world continues to research and discover more and more about chronic inflammation, and the ways it affects our bodies, these tips will set you on the right path to take control of your health and wellness!
