Inflammation is the body’s response to anything it sees as harmful, whether that be a virus or stubbing your toe.
In one way, it’s really helpful. It sends immune cells to the site of injury and opens blood vessels so more healing blood can reach the area.
But in some cases, the body’s defenses can cause more harm than good. According to John Hopkins Medicine, “components of inflammation that are capable of destroying microbes can also injury bystander normal tissue”.
For the millions who suffer with chronic inflammation, this is a painful reality.
Are you suffering chronic inflammation?
Typically, acute inflammation is characterised by heat, pain, redness, swelling and loss of function – think about any time you’ve sprained anything.
While these reactions are also found in cases of chronic inflammation, the signs themselves become more nebulous – fatigue, brain fog and even depression are linked to inflammation.
You may also have an inflammatory disorder. These include things like allergies, arthritis, asthma, all autoimmune diseases, bowel diseases, dermatitis or heart disease.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of inflammation, it’s worth a trip to the doctor to have these conditions ruled out.
What causes chronic inflammation?
Inflammatory disorders are a bit of a chicken and egg situation. Scientists can’t agree whether inflammation leads to chronic, overactive immune responses, or whether the illnesses themselves trigger the inflammation.
But while the exact cause is not yet known, there are plenty of lifestyle factors linked to chronic inflammation and its progression.
“Dietary triggers, stress, poor sleep, gut dysbiosis and environmental toxins all cause inflammation on their own,” says functional medicine practitioner Chris Kresser. “When combined together, they are an explosive mix.”
One thing science can agree on is that sugar is a key suspect. In one study, cutting out fructose improved key inflammatory markers by 30 per cent. In another, research on 186,900 women found those who consumed sugar-sweetened soft drinks were 63 per cent more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis, a common inflammatory disease.
How can we reduce chronic inflammation?
Chronic inflammation can be managed with the help of medical practitioners and healthy lifestyle choices.
Some of us in the IQS team (including Sarah) have inflammatory disorders, and reduce our symptoms through self-care, low-sugar living and natural anti-inflammatories.
- Turmeric (and its active ingredient curcumin) is known to be one of the strongest anti-inflammatories. We love it sprinkled on veggies and lattes.
- Omega-3 fats are so amazing at fighting inflammation that scientists are trying to figure out ways to incorporate them in modern medicine. Munch on oily fish, nuts and seeds to get your fix.
- Extra virgin olive oil contains a potent antioxidant called oleocanthal, which may slow the progression of inflammatory degenerative joint disease.
- Green veggies are abundant in chlorophyll, which has shown potential in fighting inflammation. Another good reason to eat your veggies!
- Exercise has shown promising anti-inflammatory activity, and it makes us happier, too!
Of course, if you do have an inflammatory disorder, see your doctor first before making any big changes to your diet or lifestyle.
What have you found has helped with your inflammation?
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