Inflammation

Inflammation: How It Affects Your Body—and What You Can Do About It

Inflammation is the body’s natural defense mechanism, designed to protect us from injury, infection, or stress. In the short term, it’s helpful—swelling, heat, and redness are signs that the immune system is doing its job. However, when inflammation becomes chronic, it can quietly undermine health in serious ways.

Chronic inflammation occurs when the immune system stays activated long after a threat has passed. Instead of healing the body, it begins to damage healthy tissues and organs. This persistent immune response can contribute to the development of some of the most common and debilitating health conditions. Research has linked chronic inflammation to heart disease, because inflammatory molecules can damage blood vessels and promote plaque buildup. It can also worsen insulin resistance, playing a role in type 2 diabetes.

Inflammation affects the brain as well. Elevated inflammatory markers are associated with cognitive decline and mood disorders, including depression. In the joints, chronic inflammation contributes to arthritis, causing pain and reduced mobility. Even the digestive system can suffer, as inflammation is a root factor in conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease.

Lifestyle factors including poor diet, chronic stress, lack of sleep, pollution exposure, and physical inactivity—can all drive inflammation higher. Ultra-processed foods like sausage, bacon, chips, fried foods, crackers, excess sugar, and trans fats are especially known to trigger inflammatory pathways.

The good news is that reducing inflammation is often achievable through practical, everyday choices like eating a healthy diet, staying active, prioritizing sleep, and managing stress. Addressing inflammation doesn’t just prevent disease—it supports long-term vitality and overall well-being.

Contact me today for more information on inflammation and how to get set up on an Anti-inflammatory diet!