The OTHER Type of Inflammation

We usually think of inflammation as what happens when we sprain an ankle or twist a knee BUT there is another DANGEROUS form of inflammation. There are certain TRIGGERS that tell your IMMUNE SYSTEM to deploy its forces when really NOTHING IS WRONG! The white blood cells circulate your body with no actual INJURY to attack and so they begin to DAMAGE YOUR OWN ORGANS! Scary right? But no worries because these "TRIGGERS" have been identified and can be avoided AND many ways of fighting unwanted INFLAMMATION have also been identified.

(Time Magazine)

Signs You May Be Suffering From Chronic Inflammation:

1. Steady weight gain without a change in diet
2. Dry skin, dandruff, and acne
3. Constant aches and joint pains
4. Continuous runny nose
5. Slow healing wounds
6. Constant feelings of fatigue despite adequate sleep

Chronic Inflammation Has Been Linked To:

1. Alzheimer's Disease
2. Heart Disease
3. Cancer

Inflammation Triggers: (AVOID THESE)

1. Carrying excess weight
2. Overloading on sugars, carbs, and trans fats
3. High anxiety
4. Air Pollution
5. Binge Drinking
6. Tooth decay/Gum disease

Inflammation Fighters: (TRY THESE)

1. OMEGA 3 FATTY ACIDS! (check out my fish oil post)
2. Fruits and Veggies: they contain magnesium, antioxidants, carotenoids, and lycopenes that are GREAT inflammation fighters
3. Red Wine (in moderation of course)
4. 45 minutes of moderate EXERCISE most days of the week
5. Boost your mood! Lowering stress, anxiety, and depression in your life is HUGE in fighting inflammation.
6. BEST FOODS: Spinach and other dark leafy veggies, berries, salmon, lentils, beans, and flaxseed
7. Brush and Floss your Teeth daily and schedule check-ups at the dentist every 6 months

References:
www.inflammation911.com
www.womenshealthmag.com
www.inflammationawarenessnow.com
www.inflammation-information.com/chronic-inflammation.html