Inflammation is a word that is used often, yet hard to define. Most of us have a hard time separating inflammation from an ankle sprain vs. inflammation contributing to heart disease and arthritis. In order to understand how to fight it, it's important to understand how and why it occurs!
Inflammation is a very common and innate response to an injury, pain or stress. It is part of our bodies natural defense system to prevent something worse and/or speed up healing time.
Acute inflammation is the first response to an injury or pathogen. It's acute because it should only last several days or less. Examples of what can cause this:
- Illness (virus, bacteria)
- Trauma (punch, kick, sprain)
- Burn
- Frostbite
- Allergic Reaction
More importantly..... Chronic inflammation. Our bodies go haywire when this seemingly harmless acute reaction becomes chronic and systemic. There are a few things that cause inflammation to be turned "on" at all times.
- Toxic Diet : High sugar, high fat, high-gluten & processed foods
- Low Omega-3 Intake: Omega-3's are necessary to the anti-inflammatory process (in addition high Omega-6 intake is as bad as low omega-3)
- Lack of Sleep
- Lack of Movement: Being sedentary is linked to a low-grade inflammatory state.
- Chronic Stress
Remember we are always available for lifestyle advice and nutritional counseling. If you need to figure out where to start, give us a call! North Shore Pro-Active Health | 847-362-4476 | www.drleasure.com
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