Posted by Sherry L. Granader on 7th Jul 2014

Inflammation: A Major Health Issue

It is no secret that inflammation is a major health problem for everyday people. Inflammation is responsible for many health issues but the good news is that it can be prevented when the focus is on healthy habits. Pain in the body and other chronic diseases are caused by inflammation that starts with poor eating habits and lack of nutrients. (1)

Some of the problems of inflammation include obesity that can lead to other illnesses including heart disease, diabetes, strokes and depression. Those that make a habit of eating fast food on a weekly basis can develop asthma, hay fever and insulin resistance. Insulin resistance basically means that your pancreas has ‘turned in its notice’ and stops working properly. (2)

For example, the sugar, fat and salt in fast food is designed to create an addiction by increasing dopamine, the pleasure centers of the brain. The body produces insulin causing fat cells to multiply as the body releases cortisol, the stress hormone. Blood pressure rises causing inflammation and the only way you feel better is having more of the same. It really is a major health issue. (3)

What You Can Do NOW

However, each of us is in control of our own health. We can make decisions and choices every single day that will affect our health in a positive way. There are some simple strategies that will help reduce inflammation, improve performance each and every day with real results. They include:

  • Begin the day with a healthy breakfast within one hour of waking up
  • Get regular exercise
  • Brush and floss your teeth every day
  • Take supplements such as an Omega 3 (Essential Fatty Acids) and a Multi- vitamin and mineral supplement
  • Find alternative healthy meals as opposed to fast food
  • Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables daily – the more colorful, the better.
  • Add walnuts and freshly ground flaxseed to your diet.
  • Be proactive with your health that focuses on prevention of inflammation rather than creating it. Begin to learn what increases and reduces inflammation in your body. Omega-3 fatty acids are in short supply in today’s diet. Supplementing with an Omega 3 is the easiest and safest ways to prevent chronic inflammation.

    Avoid Processed Foods

    Read labels and avoid the worst offender for creating inflammation and that is trans fats – hydrogenated oils. Stay away from sugar and refined carbohydrates. Artificial sweeteners and preservatives can also kick off inflammation. These little changes will have a big impact towards an anti-inflammatory, healthy life.

    References:

    1. http://www.womentowomen.com/?s=omega+3
    2. http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/anti-in...
    3. http://bodyecology.com/articles/top_ten_foods_that...