The Dangers of Chronic Inflammation: How Your Diet Can Make a Difference

“Chronic inflammation: The silent danger lurking in your body”

A new study has shed light on the dangers of chronic inflammation, highlighting its role in contributing to various diseases such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, and Type 2 diabetes. According to experts, while inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, it can become harmful if it persists over time.

Dr. Sammie Gill, a dietitian and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) specialist, emphasized the importance of recognizing the impact of chronic inflammation on overall health. “Chronic inflammation can cause long-term damage to tissue and organs, as well as affect immune function, making individuals more susceptible to infections and tumors,” said Dr. Gill.

Diet plays a crucial role in either fueling or fighting inflammation. The highly processed Western diet, high in saturated fats, is known to promote inflammation, while a Mediterranean-style diet rich in plant-based foods and healthy fats has anti-inflammatory properties. Experts recommend adopting an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins like fish, and healthy fats like avocados and nuts.

Conditions associated with chronic inflammation include cardiovascular disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, chronic kidney disease, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s, autoimmune diseases, osteoporosis, sarcoma, inflammatory bowel diseases, and mental illnesses like depression.

Dr. Gill emphasized that an anti-inflammatory diet is not a specific regimen but rather an approach to eating that focuses on plant-based foods and healthy fats. Research has shown that a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and fish is associated with lower levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker for inflammation in the body, while saturated fats and red meats are linked to higher CRP levels.

In conclusion, paying attention to chronic inflammation and adopting an anti-inflammatory diet may help prevent and manage various chronic diseases. By making simple changes to your diet, you could be taking a crucial step towards safeguarding your long-term health.