The Danger of Inflammation

Six Holistic Tips on How to Reduce Inflammation in Your Body.

Inflammation is the cause of many diseases.

Inflammation is the cause of many diseases. There's an abundance of research proving the connection between inflammation and arthritis, Alzheimer's, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. This is why aspirin is an evidence based treatment option hailed to reduce the risk of heart disease, and certain cancers such as colon and prostate.

There's more - would you believe that there is a link between inflammation and mental health disorders, specifically depression. Research suggests that when examining the pathophysiology of depression, the inflammatory responses play a role. 

According to recent studies, depressed patients are found to have increased inflammation markers like higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, acute phase proteins, chemkines and cellular adhesion molecules. 

According to Raison et al. (2005), pro inflammatory proteins such as cytokines have been found to "interact with many pathophysiological domains that characterize depression, like neurotransmitter metabolism, neuroendocrine function, synaptic plasticity and behaviour."

Interesting, right?

This breakthrough could be revolutionary in terms of how we can approach certain forms of depression and other mental/neurological illnesses. 

We know that genetics are responsible for an inability to metabolize certain proteins responsible for an inflammatory response; however, some inflammation can be reduced through diet. In my e-book The Wellness Method and Power Foods, I discuss the importance of neurobiological nourishment on overall wellbeing, and especially mental health. The Wellness Method also looks an detoxification, movement, meditation, and cognitive reframing as a holistic approach to wellness.

I'll leave you with ways to minimize inflammation in the body however you can.

Six Holistic Tips on How to Reduce Inflammation in the Body

1. Minimize stress through moderate exercise like walking, meditation, yoga.
   

2. Determine any underlying physical conditions that promote/increase inflammation in the body, i.e. celiac, allergies, etc.
   

3. Modify nutritional plan so it includes an abundance of fresh vegetables, quality proteins and healthy fats. Consider adding Omega 3 to your diet, cutting down on sugar and simple carbs.
   

4. Eliminate alcohol, drugs, unnecessary over the counter medications.
   

5. Exercise your brain - Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy are cognitive exercises to manage short term life stress
   

6. Create a peaceful, loving environment for you and your family.

Holistically Yours,

Tiffany