6 Life Changes that Reduce Inflammation Fast!

April 29, 2016Health & Wellness

Chronic inflammation can have negative effects on the body in numerous ways, and recent research has shown a link from chronic inflammation to obesity, diabetes, heart disease and even depression.

Chronic inflammation occurs when the immune system believes there to be a constant threat, causing it to attack the body’s cells. Inflammation can damage the body and be a key culprit in weight gain. If you haven’t read up on anti-inflammatory foods, you’ll want to start there as a way to help your body fight inflammation naturally. Anti-inflammatory foods include (among others):

Blueberries
Pineapple
Leafy Green Vegetables
Celery
Walnuts
Chia Seeds
Turmeric
Ginger
Cinnamon
Garlic

While incorporating these foods into your diet, make sure to stay away from foods that cause inflammation, such as foods containing sugar, artificial ingredients and chemicals and gluten, for those who have a gluten sensitivity. Food isn’t the only way to help your body fight harmful inflammation. Take these six steps to ensure that your body stays safe from inflammation:

1. Avoid Certain Medications

Antibiotics, antacids and NSAID’s can harm your microbiome by altering your gut, changing the way you digest your food. This kind of damage can cause inflammation that weakens the intestinal wall and causes leaky gut, which releases toxins that trigger an immune response. These medications can often have a harmful effect on the immune system and end up causing chronic inflammation throughout the entire body.

2. Reduce Toxin Exposure

When foreign substances encounter the immune system, the body can react by creating inflammation. Detoxify your life by choosing safe, organic and natural products. Check your household cleaning products, laundry detergent, face wash, hair products, deodorants and perfumes for chemicals that may be harmful to your health.

3. Stay Active

Exercising regularly promotes overall health and well-being. In one study, researchers followed over 4,000 middle-aged participants for more than 10 years. They found that those who exercised for at least 2 1/2 hours each week had a lower risk of inflammation by at least 12%. Performing some form of exercise several times a week will keep your blood pumping and improve cardiovascular health, which in turn will play a role in keeping other parts of the body healthy and strong.

4. Get Plenty of Sleep

Sleep is vital to keeping the body healthy. Research shows that not getting enough sleep can trigger inflammation. For a better night’s rest, eat a light dinner, skip the alcohol and turn off all electronics at least an hour before bedtime.

5. Enjoy Some Sunshine

Sunlight is the best natural source of Vitamin D you can get. Too much sun exposure can be harmful, but getting enough vitamin D is crucial to keeping your immune system strong. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to inflammation, as well as depression. Aim for at leas 15 minutes outdoors each day.

6. Pamper Yourself With a Massage

Research suggests that a 45-minute massage can lower the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the body. So there you have it: A legitimate medical reason to enjoy a massage. It fights inflammation!