Every month in my practice, I come across many people with conditions which are a result of chronic inflammation. So what is this chronic inflammation? First we should understand the term Inflammation.
Inflammation is a vital part of the body’s immune response. It is the body’s attempt to heal itself after an injury; defend itself against foreign invaders, such as viruses and bacteria; and repair damaged tissue. There are two types of inflammation: acute and chronic (systemic) inflammation. Acute inflammation is short-term and the effects subside after a few days. Chronic inflammation, sometimes called systemic, low-grade inflammation, happens when the body sends an inflammatory response to a perceived internal threat that does not require an inflammatory response and eventually the fighter cells start attacking internal organs or other necessary tissues and cells.
The above illustration depicts all the ailments which are due to chronic inflammation. The number of cases of Autoimmune conditions are increasing everyday. In the case of Arthritis, the body is in pain due to chronic inflammation.
CAUSES:
- Chronic low-grade food allergies or food sensitivities
- An imbalance of bacteria and fungi in your gastrointestinal tract, also known as dysbiosis. This causes our immune system to overreact to bacteria in your gut and can be without notable symptoms.
- Stress: Constant psychological, emotional or physical stress raises the level of cortisol, creating inflammation.
- Environmental toxicity from our air, water, food pollutants and toxic metals like mercury and lead all contribute to inflammation and have been linked to diseases as varied as endometriosis and cancer.
- Diet and lifestyle: too much fat, sugar, and protein in your diet, constant dehydration, consumption of too many sodas or caffeine, inactivity, and lack of sleep can all increase inflammation in our body
SYMPTOMS:
- Constant fatigue
- High blood pressure
- Ulcers
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Bloating
- Acne
- Flushing
- Water retention
- Food cravings
- Binge eating
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Joint pain
- Stiffness
- Unexplainable weight gain
DETECTION:
Chronic inflammation can be measured by doing a test called C reactive protein. This gives us a good measure of inflammation in the body.
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY LIFESTYLE:
Diet plays an important role in reduction of inflammation. Eating a clean diet with lots of various coloured fruits and vegetables, whole grains, Beans and nuts and seeds are the foundation of healing. A serving of green leafy vegetables everyday will bring a lot of changes. Berries like amla, acai and blue berries can reduce inflammation. A proper sleep cycle and regular exercise is imperative. Avoid sugar, fried foods and highly processed foods. Alcohol and Smoking can contribute to inflammation.
Turmeric, Ginger, Garlic, Tulsi, Boswellia are the best herbs for inflammation.
Bringing in a postive outlook to life and making the right choices in Diet and lifestyle is the only way to get out of the vicious cycle of inflammation.
PHOTO CREDIT: The school of modern herbal medicine.