Tips for Managing Chronic Inflammation
Imagine your body as a busy construction site, where workers are always building, repairing and maintaining different parts. Sometimes, there might be problems like debris or small accidents that happen at the construction site. In response, the workers might start working a bit harder, using tools to fix the issues and get things back to normal.
The worker bees (in their entirety) of your body’s construction site basically live in the immune system. It’s the hub of our personal construction site that quickly moves into action to face off against germs, bacteria, and illnesses.
The problem is that our immune system is not perfect. It might sometimes overreact to a problem even when there isn't any harm. This can cause it to stay active for longer periods, kind of like workers who keep working even after the repairs are done. This ongoing activity is what we call "inflammation."
Symptoms of chronic inflammation typically include fatigue, joint pain, muscle pain, recurring infections, digestive issues, skin problems and prolonged healing times for wounds or injuries.
Tips to manage chronic inflammation
- Start to live by the mantra of “food as medicine”. We hear the advice of a healthy diet so often that it can seem boring and repetitive, but it truly has significance. Fruit, vegetables, protein, healthy fats, and wholegrains can do the human body a world of good. These foods provide essential nutrients that can help control chronic inflammation.
- Fish are our friends! When you’re out shopping, look for foods that contain Omega-3 fatty acids like fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), flaxseeds and walnuts. Omega-3s have great anti-inflammatory properties.
- What riles up inflammation? Sugary foods processed foods and sugary drinks. So, to control inflammation, go easy on these food culprits. Before buying anything, examine food labels; the longer the ingredient list, the more detrimental it is to your health.
- A stand for antioxidants and they are great for fighting inflammation! You can find these little helpers in berries and dark leafy green vegetables. These wonders don't just delight your palate; they also team up to tackle inflammation and fortify your body.
- Make water your BFF. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body properly hydrated and support overall health.
- Move – and stay moving! Keep inflammation at bay with regular exercise. Any movement will do, just get up!
- Lack of sleep can lead to inflammation, so aim for at least seven hours of restful sleep each night.
- There are good fats that actually help reduce inflammation. Choose sources of healthy fats like olive oil, avocados, and nuts.
- Certain herbal drinks like green tea and turmeric tea contain compounds that can help reduce inflammation.
Remember, each person’s body is different, so make a concerted effort to take care of your health and figure out what works best for your body to manage chronic inflammation.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.