It’s vital to understand that chronic inflammation puts the body in a constant state of crisis. Inflammation to the body is akin to weeds in a garden. The suffocating toxins, threats of injury, and challenged immune response jeopardize our seemingly effortless body functions.

An unhealthy diet and lifestyle only intensifies the inflammatory response. Red meat, omega-6 fatty acids, trans-fats, and high fructose corn syrup, all part of the typical American diet, actually encourages inflammation. These foods in fact trigger chemical pathways that cause a chronic inflammatory situation. Even obesity significantly contributes to a low-grade condition of chronic inflammation. Adipose cells release inflammatory proteins into the bloodstream, which increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Obesity is also linked to higher C-reactive protein levels, produced by the liver.

Fortunately inflammation is reversible because diet and lifestyle are, for the most part, risk factors under our control. Eating foods that are unprocessed, substituting fish for meat, using olive oil or vegetable spread instead of butter, and consuming nuts and beans, which in fact have anti-inflammatory effects, is a start. Green tea, red wine, and many fruits and vegetables, especially berries, broccoli, tomatoes, and spinach all have anti-inflammatory properties.

It is important to treat any inflammatory conditions, especially those that are chronic.

Some suggestions:

Take care of yourself; manage your stress more carefully; get your blood pressure below 120/80; keep your HDL high and your LDL low; and find out your CRP levels.

Lastly, studies show regular exercise may help reduce inflammatory proteins. So GET MOVING! (Would you expect I say anything differently?)

Your body works hard all day trying hard to maintain a state of health. Eat well and live life fully. Your body will thank you.