The Slow Burn of Inflammation

Inflammation results any time your immune system is activated. This is a good thing when your body is under attack by a virus or bacteria.

But once the process starts, it’s hard to quiet down. Inflammation then becomes like a smoldering fire. You may not be aware of it until the fire suddenly rages out of control.

Inflammation is a silent killer. Conditions such as Alzheimer’s, arthritis, asthma, irritable bowel syndrome, heart disease, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and prostatitis are all ailments related to your body’s inability to control inflammation.

The list of causes of inflammation is a long one. Inflammation can result from toxic exposure, chronic infections, allergies and food sensitivities, trauma or injury, autoimmune conditions, obesity, insulin resistance, mitochondrial damage, poor circulation, oxidative stress, malnutrition, vitamin deficiencies (particularly B12), lack of fiber or essential fatty acids, elevated homocysteine levels, and more.

A blood test that measures for C-reactive protein can tell you if inflammation is present. It won’t tell you the source, but you’ll know to look for the cause.

Possible Causes and Remedies

To help improve the health of your gut:

* Take antibiotics only when absolutely necessary, and follow up with supplements of pro-biotics (friendly bacteria that will help to re-establish your intestinal balance).

* Eat a high-soluble-fiber diet to encourage the growth of these beneficial bacteria. A whole raw food I highly recommend for reducing inflammation is Mila.

* Avoid foods you may be sensitive or allergic to. Common foods are dairy, wheat (gluten), soy, nuts, eggs, and shellfish.

* Wash your produce carefully.

* Get tested for intestinal parasites.

Eat a diet aimed at reducing inflammation. This means:

* Reduce or eliminate red meat, egg yolks, and shellfish, all foods high in arachidonic acid, which initiates inflammation. Additional inflammatory foods include dairy products, trans-fats, alcohol, coffee, black tea, sodas, and any caffeinated drinks, sugar, and high fructose corn syrup.

* Completely eliminate trans fats found in partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, margarine and shortenings. Trans fats promote inflammation.

* Consume more omega-3 essential fatty acids found in fish and fish oils, pumpkin seeds, walnuts and soybeans.

* Use anti-inflammatory spices such as turmeric and curcumin, ginger, garlic, onions, cayenne, rosemary, citrus fruits, and parsley.

* Increase your dietary fiber from whole grains, fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes.

Dental problems can be the cause of smoldering infections. See your dentist regularly; floss daily; brush regularly; and consider an ultrasonic brush or water pick to help remove plaque.

Sinus inflammation and congestion can harbor infection. Stay well hydrated, exercise, and try regular sinus irrigation using a saltwater solution and netty pot or irrigation device such as RinoFlow. Avoid decongestants, antihistamines and over-the-counter nasal sprays, as these can provide temporary relief but then cause severe rebound congestion.

The reproductive tract is particularly vulnerable to infections. Check with your doctor to see if you have bacterial vaginitis, cervicitis (infection of the cervix, very common in sexually active women), or prostatitis (infection of the prostate, common in men).

Allergies to airborne substances and foods are more common than people realize. Remove sources of common environmental allergens such as dust, mold, pet hair and dander. Avoid using air fresheners, as these just add chemicals to your indoor air pollution.

Try an elimination diet for six weeks; avoid dairy, wheat and gluten, and eggs. You may notice more energy, less abdominal bloating and gas, less heartburn and indigestion, more regular bowel habits, clearer sinuses and easier breathing, less joint pain and stiffness, and clearer skin.

Try to get to a healthy weight. Simply being overweight can be a source of inflammation. Limit or eliminate sugar, refined grains, and starchy carbohydrates and increase aerobic exercise and strength training.

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