health
How to Manage Chronic Inflammation What do you think of when inflammation comes to mind? When thinking of inflammation, your thoughts are likely on pain and irritation. While true, these two topics only apply to short-term inflammation. When dealing with long-term chronic inflammation, your discomfort can cause unexpectedly vague symptoms, thus making them challenging to recognize. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection, as it helps kill harmful bacteria and remove debris to allow for healing. Some signs of chronic inflammation are: • • • • •
consistent pain poor sleep being irritable or anxious more so than usual frequently becoming sick having a testy digestive system
If you suspect your symptoms are from chronic inflammation, schedule an appointment with your doctor. An underlying condition typically causes chronic inflammation; therefore, the only way to be sure you are battling it is to obtain a medical diagnosis. 14
Furthermore, relieving inflammation involves managing an affected condition. Doing so will usually include specific therapies or medications only provided by a doctor. Aside from your doctor’s treatment plan, you can adopt many healthy habits to aid in the reduction and management of inflammation in your body: Eat fruit and vegetables To reduce and manage chronic inflammation, you cannot go wrong by eating a rainbow of plant foods. They are anti-inflammatory in their natural state due to their high content of antioxidant combinations, which lower inflammation in your system. Concentrate on fiber. Fiber is excellent in feeding your healthy gut bacteria. High-fiber foods include whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables. These bacteria overall help lower your body’s inflammation. Reduce processed, sugar-filled foods. Processed foods do not contain healthy antioxidants and fiber. They are loaded with artificial preservatives, flavorings, coloring, and sweeteners. Avoid or limit them, as these substances can activate inflammation.
