The article by Flora Zhao via The Epoch Times discusses the impact of chronic inflammation on the body. According to Arch G. Mainous III, a professor at the University of Florida College of Medicine, many people experience chronic inflammation without being aware of it. A study published in Frontiers in Medicine in 2024 revealed that almost 35 percent of adults in the United States have systemic inflammation, with 15 percent of healthy individuals also affected.
Chronic inflammation is linked to various conditions and diseases, with Dr. Frank A. Orlando highlighting its association with major illnesses. The body’s inflammatory response is necessary for the immune system to fight infections and repair damage. However, when inflammation becomes chronic, it can lead to serious health issues such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases.
Research published in Nature Medicine suggested that over 50 percent of deaths are related to inflammation-related diseases. Chronic inflammation plays a significant role in heart diseases like atherosclerosis, with studies indicating a higher mortality risk associated with elevated inflammation levels. Conversely, lower inflammation levels are linked to increased longevity and better overall health outcomes.
While medications like NSAIDs are commonly used to control inflammation, long-term use is not recommended due to potential risks and side effects. Functional nutritionist Peter Osborne emphasized that relying solely on medication is not a solution for resolving chronic inflammation. Lifestyle factors, including diet, play a crucial role in exacerbating inflammation, with unhealthy food choices contributing to the problem.
Osborne highlighted the impact of modern lifestyles on inflammation, suggesting that factors like sedentary behavior, poor dietary habits, and high stress levels can worsen inflammation. He emphasized the importance of addressing the root cause of chronic inflammation through dietary changes and lifestyle modifications. Ultimately, focusing on a healthy diet and lifestyle may help reduce inflammation and improve overall health outcomes. The issue arises when individuals consistently consume a poor diet over many years, leading to chronic inflammation and a breakdown of the body’s defenses that can result in disease. Unfortunately, medical professionals often receive minimal training in nutrition during their education, but there is hope that incorporating diet into patient education could help combat diseases more effectively.
Experts stress that avoiding highly processed foods is crucial, as simply consuming foods with potential anti-inflammatory properties may not be sufficient. Food allergies can also contribute to inflammation, as seen in the case of a young girl who was saved when it was discovered that she was allergic to blueberries.
Toxins in everyday household items and cosmetics can also lead to inflammation, as can pollutants in the air we breathe. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and muscle mass can help reduce inflammation, as muscles release anti-inflammatory molecules into the bloodstream.
Stress is another silent but significant contributor to chronic inflammation. Managing stress by reframing challenges as positive events and adopting a growth mindset can help reduce the negative impact of stress on the body. Letting go of anger and doubt and approaching situations with calmness can also help reduce inflammation.
We should focus on understanding and minimizing unnecessary stress in our lives.
It is crucial to give our bodies ample time to heal and recover from stress. According to Sideroff, after experiencing stress, it is important to allow the body to enter a phase of recovery and healing. Creating moments of safety and relaxation in our daily routine, even for just a few minutes, can be beneficial. Activities like meditation or relaxation exercises can activate the body’s parasympathetic nervous system, aiding in the recovery process.
A recent study demonstrated that short meditation sessions can enhance mental well-being, reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines, and increase anti-inflammatory cytokines. Individuals who regularly practice meditation show greater resilience to stress and lower levels of inflammation in their bodies.
Furman highlights the negative impact of loneliness on inflammation levels. Those who lack social connections or support tend to experience higher inflammation levels. He recommends adopting an anti-inflammatory approach tailored to individual needs. For example, individuals with high-stress jobs and poor dietary habits could benefit from dietary adjustments, regular exercise, and strengthening relationships with loved ones to reduce inflammation.
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