Inflammation and Disease
The Inflammation Hypothesis of Disease has been around for many years. It
says that all degenerative disease (and aging) is the result of increased
levels of inflammation in the body. Inflammation is first the result of
tissue damage from chemicals called "free radicals". Some free radicals
arise normally during metabolism; some are used by your body's immune
system to neutralize viruses and bacteria. High stress living along with
environmental factors such as pollution, radiation, cigarette smoke and
herbicides can also produce free radicals.
Free Radicals Damage
Inflammation is the result of your immune system's response to free
radicals damaging tissue in your body. Too many free radicals overload your
body's ability to neutralize them resulting in elevated total body
inflammation levels. Excess free radicals begin to attack your tissues
causing tears and breaks in the cells. In an effort to defend and heal the
body, your immune system responds to these attacks by releasing certain
inflammatory chemicals. These chemicals create redness and swelling (much
like you see on your arm if you cut it) and are designed to stimulate the
immune system and heal the damage.
Eat Your Fruits and Vegetables
Most antioxidants are found naturally in fruits and vegetables. Pound for
pound, fruits and vegetables contain the most free radical neutralizing
antioxidants. Generally, any food with a nice bright color has larger
amounts of antioxidants. Other common antioxidants that you may have heard
about are vitamins A, C, E and lycopene. Daily intake of these antioxidant
loaded foods helps reduce total free radical amounts, speeds the healing of
damaged cells and slows the aging process. Adults should strive for 7
servings (a serving size is 1/4 cup) of fruits and vegetables daily.
Testing for Inflammation. C-Reactive Protein
The CRP test is a good way to determine total body inflammation levels. It
gives a better assessment of your heart health than just testing
cholesterol alone. Recent studies have shown that people with increased
CRP levels and normal cholesterol have a several-fold higher risk of heart
problems. At least one study found that treating people with normal LDL
cholesterol and high CRP levels led to a reduction in their risk of heart attacks.
Lowering Total Body Inflammation
There are many naturally occurring ways to reduce inflammation. A healthy
diet of fruits and vegetables is the best place to start. Additionally
you'll want to look at adding plant based essential fatty acids, vitamin
supplements, especially vitamin D, and adequate water. Finally, don't
forget to lower stress levels by participating in daily relaxation
techniques and 3+ hours of moderate exercise per week.
