Inflammation is the natural means through which the body protects itself from injuries, illness or infection. During inflammation, the production of cytokines, immune and white blood cells increases. These cells are vital in fighting infections. Common signs of acute inflammation are swelling, heat, pain and redness.
Chronic inflammation occurs within the body without apparent symptoms. This long-term inflammation can result in chronic conditions such as cancer, fatty liver disease, heart disease and diabetes. Long-term inflammation is rampant among stressed and obese individuals. Malacoplakia is a type of chronic inflammation with adverse health effects in women above 45 years of age. Fortunately, natural remedies for inflammation play critical roles in reducing these side effects.
Inflammation Catalyzes Aging
In long-term inflammation, there is chronic swelling. Your body will respond to both internal and external stimuli by releasing oxygen radicals and cytokines. Cytokines oxidize the body cells, causing their gradual breakdown. As the body cells get destroyed, the immune system senses a further destruction in the body, and swelling continues as a protective response against the intruder.
Without quick intervention, the inflammatory cycle may continue for a long time, causing severe destruction. As body damage exacerbates, mobility, balance and movement get compromised. Chronic swelling is among the symptoms of fast aging and chronic illnesses, including Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes.
Causes of Inflammation
High glucose levels
Excessive intake of high fructose and sugars are detrimental to your health. High sugars predispose one to obesity, diabetes and insulin resistance. There is also an interrelation between excessive glucose consumption in white bread with obesity, diabetes and chronic inflammation. In addition to these, trans fats damage endothelial cells lining the arteries and stimulate inflammation.
Excessive alcohol consumption
Too much canned meat and excessive alcohol intake may mediate inflammation, especially in women and men above 45 years of age.
Inactivity
Prolonged inactivity that involves too much sitting predisposes one to inflammatory conditions. Malacoplakia can initiate inflammation in numerous organs, with a more significant effect on the reproductive and urinary systems. It results from malfunctioning macrophages. Malacoplakia develops when bacteria invade the macrophages. Adults with a compromised immune system are at high risk of getting malacoplakia.
Natural Remedies for Inflammation
Diet change
Regulate the amount of processed foods that you eat. Take a few of these inflammatory foods, for instance, which contain excessive sugars and trans fats. You should avoid margarine, red meat, soda, french fries, pastries and white bread, which are all inflammatory. Doing so will help you in cultivating healthy gut microbes.
It is also advisable to take foods with a high concentration of probiotics, including yogurt. Incorporate vegetables and fruits because they contain fibers that have anti-inflammatory properties. Nutrients available in these meals nourish gut microbes.
Incorporating a diet that is chrono-biology based is essential in inhibiting oxidative stress, which is infamous for catalyzing the process of aging and inflammation. Apples, blueberries and leafy vegetables are rich in polyphenols and antioxidants.
Studies on individuals who eat nuts regularly showed reduced inflammation and minimal chances of getting diabetes and heart diseases. Coffee as a beverage is essential in managing inflammation because of its anti-inflammatory components, including polyphenols.
To lower inflammation risk, aim for a complete healthy meal. If you need an anti-inflammatory diet, apart from fruits and vegetables, consider:
- Healthy oils.
- Fish. Examples include sardines, tuna, mackerel and salmon.
- Whole grains.
A less processed and more natural diet has the benefit of lowering inflammation and boosting your emotional and physical health, which translates to a higher quality of life.
Self-Care
Long-term swelling is a result of stress. Apart from body nourishment, it is essential to take care of your mind. Spend much of your time engaging in activities that give you relaxation and happiness. Exercising, meditating, listening to music, writing and reading are examples of popular relievers of stress.
Yoga entails atypical movement. It is vital to a body undergoing long-term swelling and inflammation. Creating time every day to listen to your favorite music and take a few deep breaths of fresh air at a window will make a big difference. Stimulation of the parasympathetic system is an indication of a stress-free mind and regulates the swelling. To increase the quality of life, consider natural remedies for inflammation.