Acute vs Chronic Inflammation

Inflammation is your immune system’s response to a perceived injury or infection. For instance, when you have a minor graze on your hand it becomes red and slightly swollen as white blood cells rush to the site to fight off a possible infection and help the wound heal. This is a temporary situation and an example of acute inflammation.

But sometimes this immune response occurs when it shouldn’t and persists over time rather than going away. This can cause tissue damage, disrupt organ function, and lead to a dysfunctional immune system and underly many degenerative disorders.

Possible drivers of chronic inflammation

• Persistent bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.
• Dysbiosis (imbalance of bacteria in the gut).
• Toxin exposure.
• Common allergens such as food or pollen.
• Poor diet and nutritional deficiencies.
• Metabolic syndrome.
• Chronic stress.
• Hormonal imbalances.
• Circadian rhythm dysfunction.
• Medications/NSAIDs such as Ibuprofen.
• Intestinal Permeability (Leaky Gut).

Ways to eliminate chronic inflammation.

Dietary Changes

• Eliminate pro-inflammatory foods.
• Add in anti-inflammatory foods.
• Add in anti-inflammatory herbs and spices.

Lifestyle Changes

• Intermittent Fasting.
• Manage Stress.
• Get enough sleep.
• Exercise.
• Reduce exposure to toxins.