Inflammaging, a mashup of inflammation and aging, is often the cause of chronic pain, migraines, gut issues, brain fog, premature aging, the list is endless…
Inflammaging refers to the chronic, low-grade inflammation that occurs as a result of aging. It is a term that describes the gradual and cumulative inflammatory changes that take place in the body over time, as a natural part of the aging process.
Inflammaging can affect someone’s life in several ways. Firstly, it can contribute to the development of age-related diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease, and even certain types of cancer.
Secondly, inflammaging can lead to a decline in physical and cognitive function, making it more difficult for individuals to maintain their independence as they age. Additionally, inflammaging can increase the risk of depression and other mental health conditions.
Overall, inflammaging can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life, and researchers are working to better understand the underlying mechanisms of this phenomenon in order to develop effective interventions and treatments to mitigate its effects.
Why Does Inflammation Occur in the Body?
Inflammation occurs in the body as a natural response to injury, infection, or other harmful stimuli. It is part of the body’s immune system response and is designed to help protect the body and promote healing.
When the body detects a threat, such as a virus or bacteria, it triggers an immune response that involves the release of inflammatory chemicals, such as cytokines and chemokines. These chemicals help to recruit immune cells to the site of the threat, where they can neutralize the pathogen and remove damaged tissue.
Inflammation can also occur in response to non-infectious stimuli, such as physical trauma or exposure to irritants. In these cases, the immune system may respond in the same way, releasing inflammatory chemicals to help repair damaged tissue and protect the body.
While inflammation is a critical part of the immune response and necessary for healing, chronic or excessive inflammation can be harmful to the body and contribute to the development of a range of diseases, as well as the aging process itself.
Why Does Chronic Inflammation Occur?
Chronic inflammation can occur when the immune system continues to respond to a perceived threat, even after the initial stimulus has been removed. This can happen due to a variety of factors, including:
- Persistent infection: In some cases, an infection may not be completely eradicated by the immune system, leading to chronic inflammation.
- Autoimmune disorders: In autoimmune disorders, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, leading to chronic inflammation.
- Environmental factors: Exposure to environmental toxins, such as pollution or chemicals, can trigger chronic inflammation.
- Lifestyle factors: Poor diet, lack of exercise, and chronic stress can all contribute to chronic inflammation.
- Aging: As we age, our immune system may become less effective at regulating inflammation, leading to chronic inflammation.
Chronic inflammation can lead to tissue damage and contribute to the development of a range of diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, arthritis, and certain types of cancer. Reducing chronic inflammation through lifestyle changes, such as improving diet and exercise habits, may help to prevent or manage these conditions.
So What Can Be Done About Chronic Inflammation?
Inflammation can be managed through a variety of approaches, including:
- Lifestyle changes: Remember what Dr. Seeds says: Food and Exercise are medicine. Making healthy lifestyle choices such as following a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, quitting smoking, and reducing stress can all help to reduce inflammation in the body.
- Over-the-counter Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen can be effective at reducing inflammation and managing pain. This is NOT good for long-term use, and should not be used for extended periods of time. It also doesn’t fix the root cause of inflammation.
- Supplements: Some supplements such as C:15 (Fatty15), methylated curcumin (Prodrome GTA), and ginger have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help to manage inflammation.
- Alternative therapies: Certain alternative therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and meditation have also been shown to help manage inflammation.
- Redox Inflammaging IV: A combination of high-dose peptides and vitamins will help to quell chronic and acute inflammation. It will also improve your brain focus, immune system, and your sleep (hello circadian clock!).
Contact us for more details and we turn inflammation back into a helpful (rather than harmful).
